HB 702 -- LIQUOR CONTROL

CO-SPONSORS:  Barry, Boykins, Curls

COMMITTEE ACTION:  Voted "do pass" by the Committee on Local
Government and Related Matters by a vote of 11 to 5.

This bill requires the placement of warning signs in
establishments licensed to sell or serve alcoholic beverages.
The warning sign must be on the premises and must state that
drinking alcoholic beverages during pregnancy may cause birth
defects.  The Supervisor of Liquor Control is required to issue
a warning to a licensee violating this law.

FISCAL NOTE:  No impact on state funds.

PROPONENTS:  Supporters say that fetal alcohol syndrome is the
main cause of mental retardation in children.  These children
have learning disabilities and mental health problems.  Patrons
need to be educated about the dangers of drinking when
pregnant.  Customers who drink from a glass don't see warnings
that are printed on cans and bottles.  The bill will cost little
and save thousands of dollars in health care each year.  This
same legislation has helped in other states.

Testifying for the bill were Representative Barry; Jenni Loynd;
Dr. Stephen Braddok;  Missouri ACT; March of Dimes; and
Department of Health.

OPPONENTS:  There was no opposition voiced to the committee.

Steve Bauer, Legislative Analyst

Missouri House of Representatives
Last Updated November 26, 2001 at 11:45 am