Policy and Regulation Changes in Pennsylvania

Authored by Chris Schumacher, | Medically Reviewed by Peace Valley Recovery Editorial Staff,
Last Updated: June 14, 2024

Alcohol is the most widely used substance among youth in America, with significant consequences. Underage drinking is linked to deaths from alcohol poisoning, suicide, homicide, and motor vehicle crashes. It also contributes to risky sexual behavior, family, school, or legal problems, and can alter brain development. The human brain isn’t fully developed until the mid-to late-20s, making adolescents particularly susceptible to risky behaviors due to an underdeveloped prefrontal cortex, the brain region responsible for planning and impulse control.

According to the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, more adolescent girls reported past-month alcohol use and binge drinking than boys. Adolescents are also more likely to use alcohol than tobacco or marijuana, underscoring the urgent need for targeted interventions.

The PLCB has been at the forefront of initiatives to curb underage and high-risk drinking. Their strategy involves a comprehensive blend of education, enforcement, and community engagement. The PLCB’s Bureau of Alcohol Education aims to lead in reducing alcohol misuse through innovative programs and partnerships.

One of the first lines of defense against underage drinking is the training provided to Fine Wine & Good Spirits store associates. These personnel are trained meticulously to verify the age of purchasers and to identify signs of impairment. In addition to these measures, the Responsible Alcohol Management Program (RAMP) educates liquor licensees and their employees on responsible alcohol service, detection of fraudulent identification, and handling visibly intoxicated persons.

The PLCB’s efforts extend beyond training to substantial financial support for various programs through the Reducing Underage and Dangerous Drinking (RUDD) Grants. These grants authorize schools, community organizations, municipalities, law enforcement, nonprofits, and institutions of higher education to implement evidence-based strategies aimed at reducing alcohol misuse.

One such example is through increased police patrols and social norms campaigns funded by these grants help create environments where underage drinking is actively discouraged. Colleges utilize these funds to conduct alcohol assessments, develop educational programs, and train peer leaders to influence their classmates positively.

The landscape of underage alcohol consumption is evolving, especially with the prevalence of social media, and the PLCB is continuously adapting its strategies to address new trends. The proliferation of high-ABV beers, alcopops, alcohol slushies, and the dangerous practice of creating “borgs” (blackout rage gallons) are modern challenges that the PLCB is keenly aware of. These trends facilitate binge drinking and pose severe health risks.

To combat these, the PLCB focuses on comprehensive education about the dangers of these beverages and practices. They provide training not only to their staff but also to community leaders and educators to ensure that the message reaches those most at risk.

The PLCB’s efforts extend beyond training to substantial financial support for various programs through the Reducing Underage and Dangerous Drinking (RUDD) Grants. These grants authorize schools, community organizations, municipalities, law enforcement, nonprofits, and institutions of higher education to implement evidence-based strategies aimed at reducing alcohol misuse.

One such example is through increased police patrols and social norms campaigns funded by these grants help create environments where underage drinking is actively discouraged. Colleges utilize these funds to conduct alcohol assessments, develop educational programs, and train peer leaders to influence their classmates positively.

National organizations like the National Alcohol Beverage Control Association (NABCA) and the National Liquor Law Enforcement Association (NLLEA) provide additional support and resources. These partnerships enable Pennsylvania to leverage national research, analytics, and regulatory information to enhance their local efforts.

At the heart of these policies and regulations is a genuine concern for the individuals and communities affected by alcohol misuse. The PLCB’s initiatives are designed not just to reduce statistics but to save lives, support families, and create healthier communities. This human-centric approach is reflected in every aspect of their strategy—from the training of store associates to the educational materials provided to parents.

Despite decades of effort, underage and high-risk drinking remain significant challenges. However, Pennsylvania’s commitment to addressing these issues is unwavering. By continuously evolving their strategies, investing in education and prevention, and fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, the state aims to create a safer and healthier environment for its youth.

The efforts of the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, supported by various state and national partners, highlight a robust and empathetic approach to tackling underage and high-risk drinking. These policies and regulations are not just about controlling alcohol sales but about nurturing a culture of responsibility and care that prioritizes the health and well-being of every Pennsylvanian.