IMPORTANT NEWS...
Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco Patrols the FedEx Orange Bowl for Underage Drinking
January 6, 2010
MIAMI—As the college football season comes to a close, the Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco is cracking down on underage drinking at bowl games. Last night, ABT agents patrolled the FedEx Orange Bowl, University of Iowa versus the Georgia Institute of Technology football game, issuing 21 Notices to Appear for possession of alcohol by an underage person. The penalty for possessing an alcoholic beverage under the age of 21 is up to 60 days in jail or a $500 fine.
“Florida is hosting six bowl games this year and our agents are patrolling the pre-game festivities to ensure a fun and safe environment for all fans,” said Interim Secretary Charlie Liem. “Through partnerships, like ‘TURF,’ we hope to increase education and prevention efforts so we don’t have to resort to enforcement.”
Underage drinking prevention is one of the division’s top priorities. The division works to combat underage drinking through a three-tiered approach—education, prevention, and enforcement. One prevention effort is Tailgaters Urging Responsibility & Fun or TURF. This initiative aims to positively impact the game environment for everyone with tips for a successful celebration, responsible alcohol consumption reminders and actionable steps each and every fan can take to ensure that the game, and the tradition of tailgating, is preserved.
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’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 www.MyFloridaLicense.com.