Alcohol bill on the rocks: New legislation nearly ready to pour
Wisarn Techathirawat, chairperson of the special committee overseeing the new Alcoholic Beverage Control Bill, announced that the legislation is nearing completion. Aiming for submission to Parliament by mid-December, the draft is approximately 80% finished.
At a national academic conference on alcohol, Wisarn revealed that Parliament had given the green light to five Alcoholic Beverage Control Bill drafts, contributed by the Cabinet, the Pheu Thai Party, a People’s Party MP, an alcohol prevention network representative, and a food sciences academic. Each draft presents unique elements, prompting the 42-member panel to spend over eight months harmonising them into a single, cohesive version. As of now, the integration is 70 to 80% complete.
A significant aspect of the proposed legislation involves decentralising authority to provincial alcohol control committees. This move is intended to grant local entities more power to establish zoning areas and implement specific regulations.
Wisarn anticipates the drafted bill to be included in the House agenda by December 11, ensuring its readiness for the new parliamentary session starting December 13. He is optimistic about the bill receiving priority consideration. Meanwhile, the Excise Tax Bill remains under review in Parliament, said Wisarn.
“We have thoroughly considered all perspectives and sought to understand all sides, including advocacy groups, business operators, government agencies, children and youth councils, and victims of drink driving incidents.
“One positive step is that youth council representatives will be included in provincial and Bangkok committees, along with provincial administrative organisation (PAO) chairpersons. This will ensure broader participation in decisions about zoning and regulatory limits.”
Wisarn also voiced concerns about the increasing number of drinkers in Thailand, especially among women, recognising the societal and public health challenges posed by alcohol consumption. Consequently, the bill aims to enforce stringent controls on sales promotions.
Efforts will be made to foster mutual understanding among opposition and government whips to facilitate the bill’s passage, with enactment targeted for January.
For issues impacting the broader population, discussions will involve all political parties, particularly engaging opposition and government whips. Wisarn emphasised that promoting excessive alcohol consumption is unacceptable, stressing the need for a balanced approach that benefits society by reducing alcohol-related harms, such as health risks and traffic accidents.
The proposed bill promises beneficial reforms, including tougher penalties for selling alcohol to minors or intoxicated individuals, decentralisation of authority to provincial committees, and increased accountability for sellers, reported Bangkok Post.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Baker McKenzie reports the Cabinet’s approval of the New Alcoholic Beverage Bill, imposing stricter advertising regulations, consumption restrictions, and enhanced duties for officials, aiming to tackle alcohol-related issues and promote public health. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news.
Why is decentralising authority to provincial alcohol control committees significant?
It empowers local entities to tailor regulations, potentially addressing unique regional issues and fostering community engagement in alcohol management.
How might stricter controls on sales promotions impact alcohol consumption in Thailand?
Tighter regulations could reduce excessive consumption by limiting aggressive marketing tactics, especially targeting vulnerable groups like youth.
What if the bill fails to gain priority consideration in Parliament?
Delays could hinder the timely implementation of vital reforms, impacting efforts to curb alcohol-related societal and health issues.
How does including youth council representatives in provincial committees influence alcohol control?
Involving youth ensures diverse perspectives, addressing the concerns of younger populations and potentially leading to more effective, inclusive policies.
What role do opposition and government whips play in the bill’s passage?
They facilitate discussions and consensus among political parties, crucial for overcoming legislative hurdles and ensuring the bill’s enactment.
