It’ll Never Happen
Prohibition. The word for most beer enthusiasts causes one of two reactions. The first is a sort of horrific dream we had, the kind where we almost think it really happened. The second is a roll of the eyes and a sentiment that says, basically, “that’ll never happen”. Well, I don’t think we’ll ever see a nationwide prohibition on alcohol, and I don’t believe the public will ever endorse such a ban anytime soon, but there is a trend I’m worried about – and at this point, it’s not even a trend really. What is it you ask? “Pilot Programs” or “tests”.
This week in California a new law was signed by our governor to approve a pilot program for ignition locks to be placed on all vehicles owned by people with a DUI. This isn’t a state-wide measure, but does effect very large population centers. I’m torn on this, personally, but mainly feel this is a stupid idea that won’t solve our state’s drunken driving issues, but will make those who install these devices a pretty penny. On top of that, I just don’t see how this will be enforced with any greater success than our current drinking laws. But, this is for another day. The bottom line is there’s a “pilot” program out there that is aimed at those who’ve had run-ins with alcohol and driving.
This comes just over a year after Pacific Beach in San Diego implemented a “test” of their own, one that banned all alcohol consumption on the city beaches. This program I have a much bigger problem with. Programs like this (and we’ve seen similar programs on riversides in Sacramento) are nearly laughable in that they are the pinnacle of arrogance that says “not in my back yard” – or maybe people really believe the drinking has magically stopped because it’s been prohibited in one place and not the other.
I’m just thinking here, something bloggers are good at (that’s just to say there’s not a lot of research here), but what I’m thinking is a bit alarming. How many programs are out there like this? How many cities, counties and public areas are implementing a no-alcohol zone under the guise of a “program” or “test”?
Then I thought of this crazy, “it’ll never happen” idea…
What if a progressive city in the US created another “pilot” program? What if a community of people were willing to test a crazy idea out, one that supporters are certain can work, but detractors see as doom and gloom? I’m talking about the Legal Drinking Age Limit.
You see, there is no national drinking limit in the United States, but any state that has a drinking age under 21 does not qualify for Federal highway funding – and that’s a lot of money. Is it possible to run a “pilot” program while still ensuring a state can receive their Federal funding? Again, blogging here, not researching – I really don’t know. But, I can’t help but think it’s possible. Here’s my thoughts, and you’ll find they’re very much in line with those touted by Choose Responsibility and the The Amethyst Initiative (related).
First, I’d never suggest just lowering the drinking age alone – not right now, anyway. For decades kids have been robbed of the important educational aspect of responsible drinking – you know, beyond the scary TV ads and horrific lessons of extreme abuse. That understood, adults (you know, those who are 18 and can drive, vote, fight fires and wars – those adults) under the age of 21 must complete an alcohol education course similar to that required to get a drivers license. This will be a mix of common sense, street rules, bio-chemistry and social responsibility (or, the shit we have to learn on our own as is).
Second, yes, I’m all for a drinking permit required for adults under the age of 21. Make it a special designation on a driver’s license or state ID, not its own card.
Third, if a driver under the age of 21 has an alcohol related infraction behind the wheel, all drinking privileges are removed for a set period of time. I haven’t thought this one out too much, sorry – a year maybe? Think of it as having your license suspended. I would suggest a stiffer penalty (much stiffer) for anyone with a drinking permit caught distributing alcohol to anyone under 21 who does not have a drinking permit, and all under that age of 18. Same with alcohol on campus – if caught with booze at school, there’ll be hell to pay.
So, that’s just me thinking about pilot programs and the “it’ll never happen” way we live. Seeing more and more 100% bans on alcohol in public areas makes me think that just maybe something equally offensive and promising could be tested out. Who knows, it might just work…
