2021 DRINK RESPONSIBLY
FOCUS ON RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION
Brown-Forman has developed many programs for combating alcohol abuse and promoting safe sales and use of alcohol . The company has identified eight focus areas that “ help define what alcohol responsibility means ” and guide the company ’ s thinking , programs and partnerships : Make moderation aspirational Support the choice not to drink Provide product transparency Uphold marketing codes of practice Prevent drunk driving Prevent underage access and consumption Empower bystander intervention Support addiction recovery The company launched its internal campaign “ Pause ” to elevate responsibility , raise awareness and inspire action from employees . Pause encourages anyone to pause , consider and make responsible decisions around alcohol . The campaign has been embraced by employees around the globe , as well as industry partners .
To amplify the campaign with Spanish-speaking consumers , the Latin America Region of the company created “ Tomalo Con Calma ,” or “ Take it Easy .” Like Pause , Tomalo Con Calma is rooted around mindfulness and wellness , and empowers employees to make the right decisions .
To provide employee education , Brown-Forman uses Think and Drink Tavern , an interactive online simulation that provides tips on factors that lead to intoxication , the signs that someone may be over the limit and how to best intervene when someone has over-consumed . It also provides facts about identifying problem drinking .
The SPIRIT employee resource group within the company also supports Brown-Forman ’ s commitment to creating an environment where all employees feel welcome as contributing members of the organization , regardless of their own choice whether or not to drink .
SUPPORTING DRUNK DRIVING PREVENTION
LEGISLATION
The Distilled Spirits Council and Responsibility . org recently announced support for the HALT Act to stop impaired driving , urging Congress to pass the legislation that would place advanced drunk driving prevention technology into new vehicles .
According to the IIHS , more than 9,400 deaths could be prevented each year if this technology was implemented .
The HALT Act would establish a regulatory process to test new technology and determine feasibility of ( and ultimately install ) lifesaving tech that ’ s unobtrusive to safe drivers in new vehicles .
“ We are dedicated to eliminating drunk driving , and with recent increases in multiple substance impaired driving , we know we must support bold and innovative approaches to save lives ,” said CEO Chris Swonger . “ Technology holds tremendous promise , and all types of technology , including alcohol detection , cameras and driving monitoring systems , must be explored as effective ways to prevent impaired driving .”
According to Swonger ’ s statement , technology is critical to addressing impaired driving among DUI offenders . Ignition interlocks are the most effective way to stop an offender from driving drunk again . Online screening and assessment tools can help identify substance use and mental health disorders among DUI offenders , and are a first step to rehabilitation and effective sentencing . Alcohol monitoring systems are effective at preventing repeat DUI offenders from drinking alcohol during the rehabilitation process .
Furthermore , oral fluid testing , electronic warrants and mobile fingerprint readers help detect impaired drivers .
The HALT Act would implement technology that will address driving behavior for law-abiding citizens .
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