Home > Laws/Policies > Policies > Alcohol Policy 101

For people who are new to the field of alcohol policy, it is important to understand the context in which they exist, their potential, and their challenges. This section offers a comprehensive overview of the rationale and context of alcohol policy. Refer to Background Information for discussions on emerging issues, the what and why of alcohol policy, and some of the key players involved in alcohol-related issues.

In addition, alcohol policy is intimately tied up with statutes, local policies, and legislation at both levels of government. It is linked with priorities and funding for research, prevention, and services focusing on alcohol. It also encompasses what communities,and individuals do at the grassroots level and the educational, preventative, and advocacy activities of non-governmental organizations. Use the main Laws/Policies section to familiarize yourself with pending and enacted legislation.

This section is designed to help answer those questions most frequently asked by professionals new to aspects of alcohol policy. If you don't find your answers here, please contact us and we'll do our best to help.

Background Information
what is alcohol policy, why have alcohol policies, emerging issues, key players, health and social impacts, milestones in policy

Statistical Overview
summary statistics about alcohol consumption, health and social impacts, economic costs and benefits, alcohol controls, and public opinion

Newbie Reference List
links to helpful materials for practitioners new to the field, or needing a "refresher"

Priorities 2006: Developments in alcohol policy since 1996
an extensive report discussing what issues are currently of concern and being addressed

Frequently Asked Questions
most commonly asked questions about alcohol policy, including:

  • Who is responsible for which areas of alcohol regulation
  • How to develop a municipal alcohol policy.

    • Refer to the Laws/Policies section for: