CHARLESTON, WV – The West Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control Administration (WVABCA) is pleased to report that Governor Patrick Morrisey has officially recognized April as Alcohol Awareness Month in West Virginia. In issuing a proclamation, the governor 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 (NIH), in the United States in 2023 approximately 178,000 people died from alcohol related causes with over 4 million emergency room visits. Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) affects about 29 million adults in the United States. In addition, about 3.3 million adolescents aged 12 to 20 in 2023 binge drank in 2023.
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 over 72,000 people, mostly students since 2010. Additionally, the WVABCA’s NO School Spirits Public Service Announcement (PSA) contest has reached tens of thousands of students. This 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. WVABCA educational information can be found at www/abca.wv.gov.
