SOC217 Alcohol and Drugs Unit 7: Alcohol and Tobaco Policy
Alcohol and tobacco have a long history with the United States and our government. Please discuss the social and governmental roles in the legalization and regulation of these products. Why are each of these products legalized? How are they regulated? What are some of the regulations? Are they effective? What are the specific alcohol and tobacco laws for the state in which you reside? Please provide specific examples of how social views of alcohol and tobacco helped shape policy federally and locally.
In California, both alcohol and drug regulations are primarily managed by state agencies. The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control regulates the manufacture, distribution, and sale of alcoholic beverages. Similarly, the California Health and Safety Code governs the possession, use, and sale of controlled substances, with schedules and penalties for different drugs.
Alcohol Regulation:
The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) is responsible for regulating the alcohol industry.
This includes licensing businesses that sell or manufacture alcohol, as well as enforcing laws related to alcohol consumption, including underage drinking and public intoxication.
The ABC also handles matters related to alcohol taxes, as it was originally tasked with administering the alcohol tax laws after Prohibition.
Drug Regulation:
The California Health and Safety Code outlines the legal status of various drugs, including Schedule 1, 2, and other categories.
For example, heroin is considered a Schedule 1 substance, making it illegal to possess.
Possession of certain drugs can be prosecuted as a misdemeanor or felony, with varying penalties based on the quantity and nature of the drug.
There are also laws regarding the sale and trafficking of controlled substances, with stiffer penalties for those activities.
Penalties for drug offenses can include fines, probation, and prison sentences, depending on the specific circumstances of the case.
In California, public opinion on alcohol and drug regulation is complex and varies across different aspects, from recreational use to driving under the influence (DUI). While there's a general support for regulations aimed at public safety, like DUI laws, there's also a debate around the legalization and regulation of recreational marijuana.
The public views on alcohol and drug regulation are multifaceted, with some aspects being widely supported (like DUI laws) and others being more divisive (like the legalization of recreational marijuana). There's a general desire for regulations that prioritize public safety and minimize harm, but also a need to balance those concerns with individual rights and the potential economic benefits of legalization.
I personally believe that the difference in opinions on drugs and alcohol, which also helps to regulate the government, is whether someone is going to make money off the sale of the products. If they will make money through taxes or direct sales, they will, of course, want to support the sale. If you are on another end like the police, social services and hospitals, you are the ones cleaning up all the messes left by the use of drugs and alcohol.
“Drinking in Public California – Is it illegal?
It is generally illegal to drink in public in California outside of a licensed venue such as a bar, restaurant or tavern.
State and local laws make it an infraction to possess an open container of alcohol in public and a misdemeanor for a minor to possess any alcohol in public. It is also a misdemeanor to be so intoxicated that you are unable to care for your own safety.
However now that Senate Bill 969 passed, California cities and counties will be allowed in 2025 to designate local “entertainment zones” in which you could drink on public streets and sidewalks.” (Shouse, N., 2024)
References:
Shouse, N., 2024, Shouse California Law Group, Drinking in Public California. Is it Legal, https://www.shouselaw.com/ca/blog/drinking-in-public-california/
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