Virginia Warns of Dangers of Caffeinated Alcoholic Beverages

The state of Virginia has issued a warning to retailers who sell alcohol about selling alcoholic energy drinks to minors.  In addition to the warning, the state is considering other steps to control consumption of high-alcohol, caffeinated beverages.
 
On Monday, November 15, The Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control sent a letter yesterday to more than 17,000 establishments with licenses to sell alcohol.  The letter states that "Alcoholic energy drinks when consumed by underage persons are a serious threat to public safety," and is intended to address the state's concerns about the drinks.  Caffeinated alcoholic beverages have been linked to the hospitalization of dozens of college students, including the hospitalization of nine students at Central Washington University last month.
 
As of January 20, 2011, a new law will require that the drinks be placed with beer and wine, and away from non-alcoholic drinks.  The agency also is looking at other options for controlling the use of the drinks. The Department are considering labeling requirements or restrictions on content. 
 
Currently, the drinks are regulated as beer, but they have significantly more alcohol. 
 
Learn more about the dangers of alcoholic energy drinks in our article, “Virginia Wrongful Death: The Deadly Effects of Energy Drinks.”
 
To learn more about wrongful death in Virginia, contact Norfolk personal injury attorney Lawrence Land at 757-251-0198.