Published in the July 20, 2018 edition
MELROSE — The Melrose Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition, Melrose Police Department and the Melrose Liquor Licensing Board will continue its collaborative efforts this year in conducting alcohol compliance checks at all licensed alcohol outlets within Melrose.
Police officers and substance abuse professionals will work with trained youth who will attempt to purchase alcoholic beverages from licensed establishments. Selling alcohol is a legitimate business and plays a valid role in communities, but must also be done responsibly. Research supports that regular alcohol compliance checks decrease alcohol sales to minors significantly and alcohol youth-related problems.
All licensed establishments are required to be compliant with respect to alcoholic beverage licensing. The General Laws of Massachusetts and the Regulations of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission follow rules and regulations in full force and effect for all licenses issued under the parameters of G.L. c.138 §12 or G.L. c.138 §15. All licenses issued are contingent upon continued compliance with all appropriate State and Municipal licenses and permits which may pertain to the operation of premises. Any violations will result in notification to the Licensee and appropriate actions consistent with the authority granted by the Commission under the law.
Alcohol use is the number one youth drug problem in the U.S. and Massachusetts, as well as the leading cause of death among young people. Preventing underage drinking is everyone’s responsibility and more must be done to address this problem. If people are interested in learning more about how they can help reduce underage drinking or would like additional information on substance use disorders, contact Kathy Guevara, LICSW, LADC-1, director of Melrose Substance Abuse Services at kguevara@cityofmelrose.org or call 781-979-4128.
