What does "zero tolerance" mean in the context of underage drinking and driving in Minnesota?

In the context of underage drinking and driving in Minnesota, "zero tolerance" refers to the legal standard that prohibits any detectable amount of alcohol in the blood of drivers under the age of 21. This means that for minors, even the smallest trace of alcohol can result in DWI (driving while intoxicated) charges. This strict policy is aimed at discouraging underage drinking and enhancing road safety by ensuring that young drivers remain completely sober behind the wheel.

Other options suggest varying degrees of allowable alcohol content or conditions that do not align with the zero tolerance stance. For example, allowing up to a certain blood alcohol concentration contradicts the intent of the law, which seeks to completely eliminate the risk associated with underage drinking and driving. Furthermore, the zero tolerance law applies to all underage drivers, irrespective of whether they have prior offenses or the location where drinking occurs, reinforcing that any alcohol consumption by minors is unacceptable in relation to driving.