IMPORTANT NEWS...

DBPR's Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco Patrols Football Games to Keep Underage Tailgaters Alcohol-Free

October 14, 2008

TALLAHASSEE—Tailgating is a traditional part of the football experience, and this weekend the Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco worked to keep alcohol out of the hands of underage people during game-day festivities. ABT agents patrolled four college football games, issuing nearly 70 Notices to Appear for possession of alcohol by an underage person. 

“I believe that a strong presence at college football games is a great way to help protect Florida’s underage youth from alcohol consumption.  By enforcing our state’s laws on underage drinking, we hold individuals accountable for their behavior,” stated Secretary Charles W. Drago. 

Underage drinking prevention is one of the Division’s top priorities, and this year ABT has partnered with Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America, The Charmer Sunbelt Group and football legend Joe Theismann to introduce TURF - Tailgaters Urging Responsibility & Fun.  The initiative is intended 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.

This weekend, ABT agents throughout Florida worked the following games:

• University of Florida vs. Louisiana State University
• Florida Atlantic University vs. Troy
• University of Miami vs. University of Central Florida
• Florida International University vs. University of Middle Tennessee

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.

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