Report on the Raging Epidemic of Alcoholism

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being
• Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

Introduction

During the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic recovery, the state of New York expanded access to alcohol in laws aimed at saving restaurants, taverns, liquor stores, and convenience stores. However, addiction experts have observed a significant increase in alcoholism cases, leading to what they call a raging epidemic of alcoholism. This report will discuss the impact of these laws on alcohol abuse and its consequences.

The Impact of Alcohol Abuse

The American Psychological Association has labeled alcohol abuse as a hidden epidemic that is quietly raging nationwide. It has resulted in more traffic crashes, increased violence and assault, fractured families, and lost jobs. Shockingly, alcohol-related deaths amount to 140,000 each year, surpassing the number of deaths caused by fentanyl overdoses.

Temporary Measures and Continued Access to Alcohol

During the pandemic’s beginning in early 2020, then-Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo implemented temporary measures to support struggling restaurants. These measures included allowing alcohol-to-go sales and expanding outdoor seating under a liquor license. However, these temporary measures have continued long after the height of the pandemic. For example, bars are now allowed to open on Sunday mornings, and alcohol sales are permitted in theaters.

State Laws Expanding Access to Alcohol

Gov. Kathy Hochul and the State Legislature have adopted several laws in recent years that increase the sale and access to alcohol. These include expanding Sunday hours for liquor and wine stores, allowing alcohol-to-go sales from restaurants, and granting caterers licenses to serve liquor at events.

Concerns and Lobbying Efforts

While these measures have been beneficial for businesses, addiction experts and health professionals have raised concerns about the consequences. The Empire State Restaurant & Tavern Association and the Association of Convenience Stores, two influential lobbying groups, have advocated for further measures to increase access to alcohol, such as cocktails in a can.

Public Health and Safety

Experts argue that the focus on business interests has overshadowed public health and safety concerns. Studies have shown that lengthening the hours of operation for bars leads to an increase in crimes and other problems. The loudest voices on this issue are often from the business community, neglecting the potential negative impacts.

Government Funding and Treatment

The state of New York has increased funding for alcohol addiction programs in recent years. However, addiction experts argue that treatment alone is not enough to address the root problem. They emphasize the need for policymakers to prioritize public health and safety by implementing measures to reduce excessive alcohol use.

Conclusion

The expansion of access to alcohol during the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a raging epidemic of alcoholism. Addiction experts warn of the detrimental effects on public health and safety, including increased traffic crashes and violence. While treatment programs receive funding, more comprehensive measures are needed to address the root causes of alcohol abuse.

Author Information

• Author: Michael Gormley
• Organization: Newsday
• Role: State Government and Politics Reporter

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

The article discusses the increase in alcoholism during the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic recovery. This issue is directly related to the goal of promoting good health and well-being.

SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

The article mentions the increased violence and assault caused by alcohol abuse, which aligns with the goal of reducing all forms of violence.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

Target 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol

The article highlights the need to address alcoholism as a public health issue and strengthen prevention and treatment efforts.

Target 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one-third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being

The article mentions the negative impact of alcohol abuse on mental health and well-being, emphasizing the importance of addressing this issue to reduce premature mortality.

Target 16.1: Significantly reduce all forms of violence and related death rates everywhere

The article discusses the increased violence and assault associated with alcohol abuse, indicating the need to reduce violence and related death rates.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Indicator 3.5.1: Coverage of treatment interventions (pharmacological, psychosocial, and rehabilitation and aftercare services) for substance use disorders

The article mentions the increase in the number of people seeking help for alcoholism, indicating the need to measure the coverage of treatment interventions for substance use disorders.

Indicator 3.4.2: Suicide mortality rate

Although not explicitly mentioned in the article, alcohol abuse is known to contribute to an increased risk of suicide. Therefore, monitoring the suicide mortality rate can be an indicator of progress in addressing alcohol-related mental health issues.

Indicator 16.1.2: Conflict-related deaths per 100,000 population, by sex, age group, and cause

The article mentions the increased violence and assault associated with alcohol abuse. Monitoring conflict-related deaths can provide insights into the impact of alcohol-related violence.

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: newsday.com

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