The National Minimum Drinking Age Act of 1984 established that 21 is the legal age for alcohol consumption, public possession and distribution in all states. However, some states have amended this law and allow underage drinking under certain circumstances, such as consuming alcohol in a private residence or consuming it while under the supervision of a parent, guardian or spouse over the age of 21. Some states require that both circumstances must be met, while others require either of the abovementioned circumstances are necessary. It is important to note that there are nearly 300 dry counties in the United States. A dry county is an area where the sale of alcohol is prohibited by law. Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Texas and Virginia all have dry counties.