I serve as Executive Director of SAFE Inc, a broad based coalition in Chesterfield County that collaborates with government and school leaders and the faith community as well as citizens, both adult and youth, to reduce and prevent underage drinking and excessive alcohol consumption. We have seen major gains in our community, and we depend heavily upon the regulations of the Virginia Department of Alcohol Beverage Control to implement effective strategies.

I endorse the comment submitted by the Virginia College Alcohol Leadership Council. As a member of a national alcohol policy advisory alliance, I attest to the fact that Virginia is highly regarded as a "best practice" state when it comes to public policy related to alcohol. Let's continue to offer leadership in that arena.

I also ask that Happy Hour be eliminated in Virginia. From various studies, we know that DUI's  and intoxication increase due to Happy Hour specials. Other nations and states are moving in this direction due to the undeniable harm resulting from the inducement to binge drink during Happy Hour. Let's learn from the history of others rather than repeating it.