Take Only as Directed


This multi-agency collaborative initiative addresses Tennessee's prescription drug abuse.

Changing Community Norms

Over a year ago, our friends on the opposite side of the state worked with their alcohol retailers and other community partners to remind adults to prevent underage drinking. If you are interested in putting up a similar sign on your commercial property, please contact us. We are sure the Memphis Area Prevention Coalition will help us get started too.

As summer fun continues, your teen may want to plan a party. Enjoy the festivity, but remember to:
  • Limit the number of people invited, and the number of people allowed on the property.
  • Have sufficient chaperons to monitor the property and the guests for any problems.
  • Be prepared the call an underage guest’s parents if he or she appears to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • Set a beginning and ending time for the party.*
It is important to remember that the adults control the party and restricting access to alcohol is their responsibility.


Please Talk To Your Teens About Underage Drinking


Do it before everyone is tired. It doesn't take long; just a reminder. Lots of little talks are more effective than one "big talk." Even an eye roll let's you know that they have heard it before...and THAT is a good thing!

National Transportation Safety Board Recommendations

More information at http://dramshop.blogspot.com/
The National Transportation Safety Board recently recommended that the United States eliminate impaired driving. Their recommendations include:
  • Reduce state BAC limits from 0.08 to 0.05 or lower
  • Increase use of high-visibility enforcement
  • Develop and deploy in-vehicle detection technology
  • Require ignition interlocks for all offenders
  • Improve use of administrative license actions
  • Target and address repeat offenders
  • Reinforce use and effectiveness of DWI courts
What do you think? You can let us know or direct your comments to them at reachingzero@ntsb.gov

Ignition Interlock Legislation Signed by Governor

Pass this test or become eligible for a quiz each time you drive
Last week, Governor Haslam signed House Bill 353, requiring functional interlock devices in the vehicles of all drunk drivers convicted with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher. (This is a reduction from previous requirement of 0.15% BAC.) The device must have “technology capable of taking a photo identifying the person providing the breath sample, recording the date, time and test result along with the photo of the person providing the test.”

This new use of these devices should help eliminate drunk driving. Currently 50 to 75 percent of convicted drunk drivers will continue to drive on a suspended license. Other states, where this legislation has been enacted, have seen a 30% decline in alcohol related traffic fatalities. A CDC study suggests that having an interlock device makes it 67% less likely that the person will become a repeat offender. The House sponsor of this legislation was Rep. Tony Shipley.

Tobacco Industry Challenge to Graphic Labels is Rejected

One of FDA proposed cigarette warning labels.
On Monday, April 22, the Supreme Court upheld a 2009 federal law requiring warning labels on cigarettes, and expanding marketing restrictions on tobacco products.

The FDA plans to move forward, further challenges exist. The US Appeals Court for the DC circuit blocked the specific warnings proposed by the FDA. Cigarette labels have not been updated since 1984.

Other protections left in place:
  • Health claims must be approved by the FDA
  • Marketing appeals to youth are banned
  • Statements implying tobacco is safe because regulated by FDA are prohibited

Sixth DEA National Drug Take Back

Saturday, April 27, from 10 AM to 2 PM

Sullivan County Collection Sites:

  • Bristol Municipal Parking Lot - 70 pounds collected
    • 801 Anderson Street
  • Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office - 40 pounds collected
    • 140 Blountville Blvd.
Other nearby collection site:
  • Bristol VA City Court House
    • 497 Cumberland Street
More collection sites can be found by entering your zip code into this DEA site.

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