WVABCA Recognizes Alcohol Awareness Month

The West Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control Administration is has recognized April as Alcohol Awareness Month in West Virginia.
In issuing a proclamation, Gov. Patrick Morrisey emphasized the need to increase public awareness and understanding about the dangers associated with underage alcohol use and adult alcohol misuse.
Since 1987, the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence has recognized April as Alcohol Awareness Month.
According to the National Institutes of Health in the U. S. 178,000 people died from alcohol related causes with over 4 million emergency room visits in 2023.
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) affects about 29 million adults. In addition, about 3.3 million adolescents ages 12-20 binge drank.
WVABCA commissioner Fred Wooton said, “We are grateful for Governor Morrisey’s proclamation.”
Commissioner Wooton added, “The WVABCA is committed to addressing the dangers associated with alcohol misuse by working with WVABCA licensees, educators, prevention specialists, community leaders and law enforcement on a local, county and state level.”
To address these issues, the WVABCA has a DUI Simulator program which has reached 72,000 people, mostly students since 2010.
Additionally, the WVABCA’s No School Spirits Public Service Announcement contest has reached tens of thousands of students.
That program encourages and empowers youth to develop and produce meaningful educational and prevention messaging aimed at preventing underage drinking.
The WVABCA licensing and enforcement efforts are also geared to protect the public. New carding posters are available for businesses to ensure compliance and help avoid underage alcohol sales.
In addition, the WVABCA will be unveiling a new server/seller carding video in the coming weeks.