IMPORTANT NEWS...

Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco Patrols Panama City Spring Break to Protect Citizens and Visitors

March 4, 2010

TALLAHASSEE—Staring next week, thousands of high school and college spring breakers will vacation in Panama City Beach for a week of fun in the sun. Panama City remains one of the nation’s top spring break destinations, and the Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco agents will patrol the beaches and clubs to provide a safe environment for Floridians and visitors.

“Spring Break is a huge economic engine for the Panama City area, and it is our duty to help provide a safe environment for Floridians and tourists,” said Interim Secretary Charlie Liem.

From March 8 through March 26, 20 ABT agents from around the state will be in Panama City to ensure compliance with underage drinking laws and retailer compliance with alcoholic beverage to prevent underage persons from obtaining alcohol. ABT will partner with local law enforcement and other state agencies and serve as the lead agency on all tobacco- and alcohol-related offences. Public safety is an important factor in keeping visitors coming back each year.

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 more than one million businesses and professionals ranging from real estate agents, veterinarians, and accountants to contractors and cosmetologists. For more information, please visit MyFloridaLicense.com.