FRANKFORT, Ky., April 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Diageo, the world's leading spirits, wine, and beer company, and an industry leader in promoting responsible drinking, commends Governor Beshear for signing HB202 that bans 'Alcohol Without Liquid' (AWOL) machines across the state. Governor Beshear's action officially outlaws the sale and usage of these dangerous devices that vaporize alcohol and allow people to inhale the fumes.
"We applaud Governor Beshear for taking this important step to help combat underage drinking and encourage responsible drinking practices among adults," said Barry Becton, Senior Director of State Government Relations, Diageo North America. "We hope other states across the country follow Kentucky's lead in outlawing these dangerous machines. Diageo wants to send the message loud and clear that we do not support any devices such as AWOL machines that could encourage the misuse of alcohol. We hope other organizations, such as the Marin Institute, step forward and applaud Governor Beshear's commitment to responsible drinking."
Although all alcohol products sold in America must be federally approved by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), AWOL machines have yet to receive such approval. Said Becton: "Operating in the most highly regulated industry, it is pertinent that all of our products -- and those of our competitors -- are carefully scrutinized by the TTB. These AWOL machines have yet to face this same oversight."
About Diageo
Diageo (Dee-AH-Gee-O) is the world's leading premium drinks business with an outstanding collection of beverage alcohol brands across spirits, wines, and beer categories. These brands include Johnnie Walker, Guinness, Smirnoff, J&B, Baileys, Cuervo, Tanqueray, Captain Morgan, Crown Royal, Beaulieu Vineyard and Sterling Vineyards wines.
Diageo is a global company, trading in more than 180 countries around the world. The company is listed on both the New York Stock Exchange (DEO) and the London Stock Exchange (DGE). For more information about Diageo, its people, brands, and performance, visit us at .
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