As revelers in Ohio get set for New Year's Eve festivities, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Liquor Control (DOLC) advocates for moderation and safety in celebration. Citing the importance of responsibility regarding alcohol consumption, the DOLC has released a series of guidelines and resources for Ohioans. According to an announcement by the DOLC, the initiative is part of a broader effort to reduce the perils of impaired driving, underage drinking, and excessive alcohol consumption, not just for the holidays but year-round.
The DOLC Superintendent Jackie DeGenova highlighted the importance of this initiative, which also aligns with Dry January, an annual movement encouraging people to abstain from alcohol for the first month of the year. "As we celebrate the start of a New Year, we encourage Ohioans to always do so responsibly," DeGenova said in a statement by the Ohio Department of Commerce. The push for safer celebrations includes a suite of online tools to help residents assess their drinking habits and make well-informed decisions regarding their intake of alcohol.
For those opting out of alcoholic drinks this New Year's Eve, Ohio Liquor (OHLQ) provides an assortment of alternative mocktail recipes, ensuring that the social festivities can be inclusive for all participants. The Division's message extends to responsible hosting and serving, with reminders for private hosts and liquor permit holders alike to provide non-alcoholic options, verify the age of customers, and watch for signs of intoxication.
OHLQ, a collaboration between DOLC and JobsOhio Beverage System, also offers creative, non-alcoholic mocktail recipes on its website for those who choose not to drink. DOLC continues its dedication to social responsibility by encouraging celebrations that don't negatively impact one's health or safety. "Together, we can celebrate joyfully and safely, making a positive impact on ourselves and our communities," repeated DeGenova, echoing the sentiments of social responsibility and wellbeing, according to the Ohio Department of Commerce.
The DOLC's guidelines also contain reminders for Ohio's open container laws and the expectations placed on liquor permit holders. In venues where alcohol is served, the emphasis is on preventing the sale and consumption of alcohol by underage individuals, and the rules against the use of illegal drugs like marijuana on licensed premises are in force. These measures are all designed to foster a safer atmosphere for celebration as the new year is ushered in with a spirit of awareness and sobriety.
