IMPORTANT NEWS...

The Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco Arms Teens with a "Survival Guide for Prom and Graduation"

April 14, 2009

TALLAHASSEE—Teenagers throughout Florida are gearing up for prom and graduation, and the Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco has developed a “Survival Guide for Prom and Graduation” aimed at preventing underage drinking and keeping Florida’s underage youth safe.  The Web-based tool includes a prom/graduation pledge not to drink underage, a way for teens to share how they say “no,” helpful tips for a safe night out, a “mocktail” recipe, and a bookmark and share box for teens to share or e-mail the Web page through social networking sites, such as Facebook, Twitter, StumbleUpon and more.

“We know that Florida’s teens may be faced with the decision of whether to drink alcohol underage during prom and graduation, and we hope this tool will encourage them to say ‘no’ and provide the resources they need to stay safe,” stated Secretary Charles W. Drago. 

The pledge includes a text box, where underage youth can share how they say “no” to drinking alcohol.  Answers will be featured on the main Web page as a way to provide teens a forum to communicate directly with one another. 

ABT executes a three-tiered strategy to combat underage drinking, which includes education, prevention and enforcement.  The mission of ABT is to keep alcohol and tobacco out of the hands of underage persons, to ensure that licensed establishments are in compliance with the laws and rules regulating the industry in Florida, and to collect taxes and fees related to these industries.

The Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s mission is to license efficiently and regulate fairly.  The Department licenses nearly one million businesses and professionals ranging from real estate agents, veterinarians, and accountants to contractors and cosmetologists.  For more information, please visit MyFloridaLicense.com.

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