Policies and Legislation

Prevention research has found that some of the most powerful influences on whether youth use substances are the policies that they encounter in their families, schools, and communities, including laws that relate to substance availability and the marketing of alcohol or tobacco. As a result, ATOD policy study and advocacy is one of the important concerns of Heartland Coalition for Youth and Families. This section includes brief mention of key issues at the local, state, and national levels.

     Underage Drinking – National:

An important report was issued in September of 2003 by the National Academy of Sciences. As reported by Jim Gogek in the New York Times on July 14, 2003 he describe the tactics used on Capitol Hill, noting that, “In Congress, the alcohol industry can be as intimidating an anybody in Washington.” The article concludes that, “Even if alcohol lobbyists can’t bury this study, they will try to make sure it finds little support on Capitol Hill or in the administration, so that the idea of a national campaign against what the American Medical Association calls an epidemic in every community will just die quietly.”

Clearly, this is a very important report, and Heartland Coalition urges you to read at least the Executive Summary. The report can be accessed at http://www.nap.edu/books/0309089352/html/index.html.

     Public Policy – State:

IADDA is a statewide organization established in 1967 representing more than 100 prevention and treatment agencies, as well as individuals who are interested in the substance abuse field. The Association advocates for sound public policy that will create healthier families and safer communities. IADDA members educate government officials in Springfield and Washington, and work to increase the public's understanding of substance abuse and addiction. You can go to their website to find out what issues and legislation are currently being looked at for the State of Illinois, find out who your local and state officials are and sign up for email alerts. http://capwiz.com/iadda/state/main/?state=IL

     Alcohol Marketing – National:

Heartland Coalition has endorsed the “Campaign for Alcohol-Free Sports TV” being conducted by the Center for Science in the Public Interest. The campaign draws attention to the impact of sport-related alcohol ads on rates of underage and excessive drinking. For more information, go to http://cspinet.org/booze/CAFST/background.htm.