PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY
Subject of Possible Rule Making: Alcohol energy drinks, a new section is needed in chapter 314-20 WAC, Beer -- Brewers, holders, importers, etc., to address alcohol energy drinks.
Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 66.08.030, 66.08.010, 66.24.261, 66.28.120.
Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The mission of the Washington state liquor control board (WSLCB) includes ensuring the responsible sale, and preventing the misuse of, alcohol. As part of this mission, the board endeavors to ensure that products which pose a threat to public safety are handled appropriately. The board is particularly concerned about alcohol energy drinks, which are marketed in a way that implies the consumption of these beverages has a stimulating or energizing effect. These beverages promote a situation where people may become inebriated, but cannot judge their own condition, which is contrary to human health and public safety. This is contrary to the mission of the WSLCB. The board is prohibiting the sale or distribution of alcohol energy drinks in the state of Washington.
Process for Developing New Rule: Interested parties can participate in the discussions formulating this rule change by contacting or sending written comments to the agency staff listed below.
Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Karen McCall, Agency Rules Coordinator, P.O. Box 43080, Olympia, WA 98504-3080, phone (360) 664-1631, fax (360) 664-9689, e-mail rules@liq.wa.gov.
November 10, 2010
Sharon Foster
Chairman