Fines, jail loom for public drinking in Costa Rica

The proposal, Bill 25.101, introduced by Olga Morera Arrieta of the Nueva República party, seeks to reform the country’s 2012 alcohol law, which currently imposes a fine equal to half a base salary for drinking in public. Under the new rules, penalties would instead be tied to daily wages, a change supporters say makes enforcement fairer across income levels.

What’s in the bill:

• First-time offenders could face fines of five to twenty days’ wages.
• Repeat offenders could be fined fifteen to thirty days’ wages or sentenced to short prison terms of fifteen to thirty days.
• Police would be empowered to seize alcohol on the spot and file court reports.
• Municipal police, who currently have limited authority, would be able to enforce the law alongside the Fuerza Pública.
• Unlicensed alcohol sales could trigger fines, temporary closures, and seizure of goods.

The initiative comes amid reports of rising violence, injuries, and even deaths linked to public drinking, particularly in tourist areas. “This is about restoring peace and safety in our communities,” Morera said in his remarks.

The Supreme Court has ruled that the bill does not alter judicial structures, meaning it requires only 29 votes in the Legislative Assembly to pass, instead of 38. However, justices cautioned that more resources may be needed to manage new cases.

Costa Rica, long known for its stability and tourism-driven economy, faces growing pressure to balance civil liberties with security in urban hubs and coastal towns popular with visitors.