Marin County Report

July 27, 2015

Alcohol Justice & the San Rafael Alcohol & Drug Coalition recently released a report that describes how the alcohol environment in affluent Marin County poses high risk of alcohol related-harm to its residents. Outlet density rates in Marin County are higher than the state average and exceed the California Department of Alcohol Beverage Control’s maximum recommended concentration. With 924 licensed sales outlets, there is one location selling alcohol for every 280 residents, and one location for every 67 youth 20 and younger. Yet more alcohol licenses are approved every year. Cheap, youth-friendly alcohol products are sold at a majority of food outlets. Both adult and youth consumption rates are higher than the state average.

The report is a call to action, encouraging anyone who is interested in the health and safety of Marin County residents to join their local coalition and organize for change. Communities can encourage policy makers to reduce the number and density of alcohol outlets; impose and enforce restrictions on advertising and promotion; and better enforce underage drinking laws.

Click here to read the full report.