BLACKSTONE — Chief Gregory Gilmore reports that the Blackstone Police Department, in cooperation with the Massachusetts Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission (ABCC), will be conducting alcohol compliance checks at local establishments that are licensed to sell alcohol.
The purpose of the compliance checks is to prevent people under the age of 21 from obtaining alcohol and to ensure that local businesses and restaurants who hold liquor licenses and their employees are not providing alcohol to minors.
Lawful alcohol compliance checks are vital to ensure that establishments obey the laws pertaining to the sale of alcohol. Effective and regular compliance checks help reduce the sale of alcohol to minors and curb underage drinking, as well as help prevent issues connected to alcohol consumption such as alcohol-related traffic crashes, crime, health issues and poor performance in school.
“By completing regular compliance checks, we hope to not only verify that local establishments are only serving those who are of legal age, but to also educate licensees about the importance of following state and local laws,” Chief Gilmore said. “Establishments and employees who are vigilant about who they serve play an important part in reducing underage drinking and its dangerous effects in our community.”
Blackstone Police intend to conduct compliance checks over the coming weeks. They will continue to do so periodically throughout the calendar year to ensure the safety of youth in the community and that licensed establishments are in compliance with the law.
The Massachusetts Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission requires that local authorities notify the public that they intend to conduct compliance checks prior to doing so.
Please visit the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission website for more information.
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