Agents will also enforce alcoholic beverage laws to increase safety for the holidays.
Sacramento – The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) announces that agents will be utilizing education and prevention programs, and enforcement operations in collaboration with local law enforcement, licensed establishments, and community stakeholders to help make the holiday season as safe as possible.
“Too many Californians are injured or killed in alcohol-related tragedies,” said ABC Director Eric Hirata. “We’re hoping that through education, prevention, and enforcement efforts these tragic incidents can be avoided.”
ABC uses programs such as Informed Merchants Preventing Alcohol Crime Tendencies (IMPACT) inspections to increase compliance with alcoholic beverage laws and enhance safety efforts in the state. IMPACT inspections give licensees the opportunity to achieve compliance and proactively prevent youth access to alcohol. “By continuing to work with the alcoholic beverage industry, we strengthen compliance throughout the state,” said Hirata. “ABC licensed establishments play a significant role in the effort to improve overall safety by properly checking IDs, avoiding service to obviously intoxicated patrons, and reminding everyone of alternative transportation options to get home safely.”
ABC also continues to emphasize programs that keep California’s youth safe. Minor Decoy and Shoulder Tap operations can be conducted in the effort to prevent underage drinking. A Minor Decoy operation involves minors under the direct supervision of the agents, who attempt to purchase alcohol from retail businesses. Shoulder Tap operations address the problem of adults who buy alcohol for persons who are younger than 21.
ABC education, prevention, and enforcement efforts are funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. For more information on ABC programs that can help save lives visit ABC’s website.
ABC is a department of the Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency.