Proposed Bill for Alcohol Sales in Russia
The State Duma of Russia has introduced a new bill that mandates adults to have a confirmed appointment with a narcologist via the State Services portal before purchasing alcohol. This initiative, proposed by Andrei Svintsov from the LDPR faction, aims to address the rising concerns over alcohol consumption among the youth. According to the explanatory note accompanying the bill, the conversation with a narcologist will provide essential information about the harmful effects of alcohol and offer timely medical assistance to those struggling with alcohol-related issues.
The bill draws a parallel to the process of obtaining a driver's license, where individuals must pass medical examinations and tests before being granted the right to drive. Similarly, the proposed legislation would require individuals aged 18 and above to undergo a narcologist examination to receive guidance on the health risks associated with alcohol consumption. This measure is intended to identify early signs of alcohol dependency and ensure that young individuals receive the necessary support.
Svintsov emphasized the importance of providing clear and factual information about alcohol's consequences, suggesting that the initiative could help combat addiction and prevent health issues stemming from alcohol use. He pointed out that many teenagers begin drinking at a young age, often influenced by older peers, leading to potential addiction by the time they reach adulthood. The proposed screening process aims to detect these issues early and offer appropriate medical assistance.
In addition to this bill, regional measures are also being implemented to regulate alcohol sales. For instance, the Vologda Region has enacted a law limiting alcohol sales to just two hours a day, while the Yaroslavl Region will soon prohibit nighttime alcohol sales in residential areas, with exceptions for restaurants.
