Governor Newsom PRESS RELEASE (imagined)

(Insight in the “Drunk, Drunker, and High-Risk Drunkenness” series)

PRESS RELEASE  (imagined)
Contact:
Office of Governor Gavin Newsom
Phone: (916) 445-2841
Email: press@gov.ca.gov
Website: www.gov.ca.gov

Governor Newsom Announces, "Saving Lives Together" Initiative to Combat Harmful Effects of High-Risk Alcohol Intoxication (imagined)

SACRAMENTO — Today, Governor Gavin Newsom introduced Saving Lives Together, a comprehensive new initiative aimed at reducing the harm caused by high-risk alcohol intoxication in California's valued hospitality industry. The innovative program aims to reduce DUI-related deaths by 20% and cut costs associated with alcohol abuse by 20% over the next ten years. This multi-faceted approach will not only save thousands of lives but will also generate billions of dollars in savings for the state.

“Alcohol abuse continues to be a major public health crisis, and it’s taking a toll on our communities. Saving Lives Together is about more than just reducing motor vehicle crashes—it’s about protecting lives, improving public safety, and promoting healthier communities across California,” said Governor Newsom. “This initiative brings together public, private, and nonprofit sectors to work collaboratively in creating sustainable, long-term solutions.” 

State agencies that will support the program include the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, Office of Traffic Safety, California Highway Patrol, California Department of Health Services, and the Department of Motor Vehicles.

The program will engage stakeholders from all sectors—including hospitality businesses, local planning departments, and law enforcement agencies—to develop and implement Best Practices for reducing the harm caused by alcohol. These best practices will be shared transparently with all parties involved to ensure a unified approach that maximizes effectiveness.

The goals of Saving Lives Together are clear:

1. Improve Public Safety and Health: Implementing strategies that reduce the number of alcohol-related incidents and improve overall community health, including a 20% reduction in DUI deaths.
2. Reduce State and Local Public Safety Expenses: Lowering the economic burden of alcohol abuse by reducing law enforcement and healthcare costs by 20%.
3. Improve Business Viability: Helping hospitality businesses create safer environments for their customers while boosting long-term profitability and community engagement.

“By working together, California can set an example where public health is prioritized, public safety is improved, and businesses thrive in safer environments,” Governor Newsom added. “This program is a win-win for everyone.”

About Governor Gavin Newsom
Governor Gavin Newsom was elected the 40th Governor of California in 2018. A lifelong public servant, Governor Newsom is committed to building a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous future for all Californians.



For more information on Saving Lives Together, please visit www.gov.ca.gov.