Politics of alcohol policy

APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Diana M. Conti, Executive Director, Parca, 800 Airport Blvd., Suite 320, Burlingame, CA 94010, 650-312-0730, ext 101, dianac@parca.org

It is evident, based both on research and experience, that alcohol policies have enormous potential to reduce and prevent underage drinking. There is now a body of knowledge to suggest that coalitions working for alcohol policy change can accomplish the goal of passing policy. Experience also suggests that coalitions can be most effective if they work strategically and become adept at managing the political process inherent in community and social change. This presentation will present recommendations for community coalitions who are working to pass alcohol policies. It will include strategic political frameworks and action plans, and strategies to counter opposition from the alcohol industry based on best practices drawn from the Reducing Underage Drinking through Coalitions project.

Learning Objectives:

Participants will be able to

1.) Identify necessary political strategies to pass alcohol policies
2.) Identify methods to counter alcohol industry opposition
3.) Identify necessary elements for developing strategic action plans.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No

Recorded presentation

Politics, Policy, and Community Action: Best Practices to Combat Underage Drinking

The 134th Annual Meeting & Exposition (November 4-8, 2006) of APHA