My dad is an alcoholic. I've seen firsthand how the easy availability of alcohol contributes to his struggles. Unfortunately, the current system does little to monitor or control alcohol purchases, potentially enabling excessive consumption and worsening addiction.

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, over 14 million adults in the United States struggle with alcohol use disorder (AUD). Each year, alcohol-related deaths account for approximately 95,000 lives lost. It's crucial that we take steps to mitigate the accessibility of alcohol to those battling addiction to prevent this figure from growing.

One immediate solution is to implement a requirement for drugstores to inquire about recent alcohol intake before selling additional alcoholic beverages. By doing so, we can help prevent individuals from purchasing alcohol when they've already reached harmful consumption levels. This process could be streamlined with a digital system that tracks and alerts when a risky threshold is approached, similar to how some pharmacies regulate prescription refills.

Imagine the positive impact this could have on families grappling with alcohol abuse. Limiting easy access to alcohol could provide the time needed for introspection, decision-making, and seeking help. For my dad and the countless others like him, this could be a lifeline to a healthier lifestyle.

This proposal isn't just about my family; it's about saving lives, fostering recovery, and reducing the societal costs of alcohol addiction, which amounts to $249 billion annually, as reported by the CDC. By taking action, we ensure a more responsible alcohol retail system that prioritizes health and recovery over convenience and profit.

Please help us advocate for this necessary change. Sign the petition to urge relevant local and national authorities to mandate alcohol intake tracking in drugstores.