Wholesalers have collaborated with brewers and retailers across the state of Louisiana by joining parents, educators, law enforcement officials and all levels of government in an effort to help address the responsible consumption of alcohol. The Beer Industry League of Louisiana has been and continues to be a voice for wholesalers continuing to ensure the safe and legal sale of malt beverage products. They have been committed to the state-based system of alcohol regulation that helps to enforce state and local laws and ensures that properly licensed retailers do not sell alcohol to minors.

Wholesalers have committed substantial resources to create initiatives that support DWI laws increasing enforcement and graduated penalties for repeat violations. They support underage drinking laws that reduce access to alcohol and prevent the manufacture of fake ID’s. The prevention of alcohol abuse and the illegal sale of malt beverage products are also important issues.

The key to progress in fighting alcohol-related abuse is education and providing information to the public. This includes:

• Programs that encourage responsible consumption at professional sporting events and other functions (e.g. alcohol-free after prom events.)
• Promotion of responsible consumption through national advertising campaigns.
• Education for servers and sellers of alcohol to properly check ID’s, to understand the affects of alcohol and how to intervene in potential alcohol abuse situations.
• Support of designated driver and free taxi ride efforts that have served as major factors in reducing drunk driving.
• Promotion of education initiatives that invite guest speakers to schools to share personal experiences involving alcohol abuse.
• Support programs that prevent the illegal sale of beer over the Internet, especially to minors.