Improving Alcohol Policy is a Win-Win for Everyone

Our team knows that Burlington kids need an environment that supports them to remain substance-free while their brains are still developing. The earlier kids start using any substance, the more likely they are to develop problem use. Burlington’s goal should be to delay, delay, delay youth use so those awesome brains can have time to develop to their full potential. Research is clear that promotion of alcohol and community norms that encourage use has been shown to increase high-risk use by young people, including using at earlier ages.  There is a lot of much needed work being done in Burlington to support individuals and families with substance misuse and dependence. But we need more happening at the community level so it doesn’t make it so hard to make healthy choices in the first place. 

We are excited to have launched a new group of partners meeting regularly that are looking critically at the community policies in Burlington that seem to be making it harder for youth and adults to make healthy choices around alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis use. Things like the amount and density of retailers selling alcohol, zoning, advertising, community events that promote use, substance-free public spaces, alcohol related trash, and more!  We are so grateful to the Burlington residents and local partners coming together from youth serving organizations, recovery, civic organizations, and more who want to make this a healthier community.  

More coming soon about the policy improvement recommendations the group will propose to Burlington policy makers!  But we wanted to let you know that improving policy doesn’t just help improve outcomes for kids.  Did you know, studies have proven that limiting alcohol licenses and hours of service of alcohol also reduces violence and prevents suicide at a community level? It can reduce stress on Police and Fire Departments with reductions in calls related to violent crime and underage drinking parties. There are wins for everyone. 

Want to help? 

Talk to your neighborhood retail stores. Encourage them to remove advertising promoting alcohol or drug use or adult-only products near youth items. Especially anything outside the store or under 3 feet! 

Advocate with our local policy makers for regulations that reduce the sales of adult-only products and promotion near schools, youth-serving organizations, and other vulnerable locations. 

Reach out to us and get involved in our efforts to reduce youth substance use rates in Burlington. Email us at  info@burlingtonpartnership.org to learn more.