SAFER Utah: Crafting Laws for Craft Cocktails

Despite common assumptions, Utah is no amateur when it comes to alcohol. However, it is among the 17 states that are subject to a control system known as Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) — meaning the government controls distribution and sales of alcohol. For example, grocery stores in an ABC state can only sell beverages containing up to 5% alcohol by volume (ABV). Higher alcohol volumes must be purchased in a liquor store or at a bar.

While alcohol consumption is decreasing among young adults, the social beverage doesn’t seem to be going anywhere. SAFER Utah, an organization that lobbies for smart alcohol laws, is bridging the gap between business needs and prevention efforts. Crystal Young, a contract lobbyist and spokesperson for SAFER Utah, says their mission is “blending fair alcohol policy with responsible drinking, in terms of both education and policy that actually prevent[s] unsafe driving and addiction.”

“A group emerged who wanted to keep the conversation going.”

The organization bloomed from a conversation that sparked over a celebratory toast, honoring Young’s journey through breast cancer. Throughout the night, talks about alcohol laws and policies were brought up. “Usually what happens — for people who work in politics or government in some way — is everyone tells you what bothers them and how they can get involved or not,” she says. “A group emerged who wanted to keep the conversation going.”

Young expresses the need for a middleman between the people in the industry (those who make their living from alcohol or the representation of alcohol) and the people in prevention, working on public safety policy. That’s where SAFER Utah comes in, advocating for sensible alcohol laws and promoting education surrounding the topic.

Since their launch in September 2024, SAFER Utah has passed a bill that protects alcohol-serving establishments from being liable for serving a person of interdiction (someone who cannot be served alcohol due to incurring multiple DUIs and/or having injured someone under the influence). This has been an issue for establishments and their employees because only law enforcement has had access to that information. Starting on July 1, the bill will require an interdicted person to have a unique driver’s license or ID card that indicates they cannot legally be served alcohol.

“Research shows that children of parents who demonstrate responsible alcohol use are far less likely to become alcoholics.”

SAFER Utah is growing and expanding, with a number of ideas and policies in the works — including fighting tax increases and pushing for high-point beer and alcohol on tap. Young expresses encouragement for the use and adoption of mobile IDs (GET Mobile ID is an app for consumers while GET Mobile Verify is for liquor-selling establishments). The benefit of this is clear interactions between consumers and businesses, who will be notified if someone is legally prohibited from purchasing alcohol. (Not to mention the added bonus of consumers having their ID on them at all times — no more missing out on the fun.)

While there is a stigma around alcohol consumption, especially in Utah, it is a societal norm that won’t be going away anytime soon. SAFER Utah wants to add to the conversation, bringing concerns to the surface while promoting the idea that alcohol can be enjoyed responsibly. “No one talks when they feel threatened,” says Young, stating that there may be groups who disapprove of alcohol use in general, but there can be a conversation about laws that work for everyone.

Young defines safe alcohol consumption as “knowing your limits, and when you don’t know yet, listen[ing] to your friends if they’re telling you that you’ve had too much. Have a buddy system, a designated driver or a ride prearranged.” She adds emphasis on adult education: “Research shows that children of parents who demonstrate responsible alcohol use are far less likely to become alcoholics.”

SAFER Utah wants to hear from you! Whether you’re a consumer, non-drinker, law enforcement or you work in the alcohol industry, your voice matters and you should have more say in alcohol laws. Follow @safer_ut on Instagram for more insight on safe alcohol consumption, and add your input to their Booze Barometer survey at saferdrinks.org.

Read more about the culture of alcohol in Utah:
How To Hang Out With Drinkers When You Don’t Drink
Buzz Free Buds: Sober Squad Provides A Safe Space For The Sober Curious