ABC Reminds Licensees to be Careful on St. Patrick’s Day

Sacramento – The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) is reminding the public to designate a sober driver or use a rideshare if they are celebrating with alcohol on St. Patrick’s Day. Those caught driving impaired and charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.

“ABC agents will be out on St. Patrick’s Day to help keep communities safe,” said ABC Director Eric Hirata. “We want to remind businesses to check IDs and ensure customers are not overserved. Let’s all do our part to keep these St. Patrick’s Day celebrations safe.”

ABC and the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) are delivering a strong prevention message since too many Californians die in alcohol-impaired crashes. Recent statistics from the ABC’s Target Responsibility for Alcohol Connected Emergencies (TRACE) unit show nearly 30 individuals under the age of 21 died in DUI-related crashes since January 1, 2021. The TRACE program is made possible by a grant from OTS. The grant provides funding for in-depth ABC investigations of serious incidents involving alcohol and minors, including car crashes.

Funding for St. Patrick’s Day enforcement is provided by a grant from the OTS, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

ABC protects communities through education and by administering prevention and enforcement programs designed to increase compliance with California’s alcoholic beverage laws. Visit ABC’s website to learn about ABC programs that can increase public safety.

ABC is a Department of the Business, Consumer Services, and Housing Agency.

Contact

Additional information may be obtained by contacting:

Public Information Office
3927 Lennane Drive, Suite 100
Sacramento, CA 95834
Email: pio@abc.ca.gov
Phone: (916) 419-2525

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