Policy Component
A policy is an agreement of how a community will address problems. Policy solutions focus on long-term
change at the system and community level. Policies can be effective in driving a desired change in a community norms and standards. In fact, research has shown policies:
- Have potential to reduce alcohol problems
- Are relatively inexpensive to implement and maintain
- Frequently have much greater local citizen support than expected
Policies are often thought of as laws or ordinances, but policies can also be simple practices or procedures. These types of informal policies can be put in place by businesses, organizations, institutions or even by families. The different types of policies with examples related to alcohol are given in the table below.
Type of Policy |
Definition |
Example Related to Alcohol |
| Public/Community Policies | Local ordinances or state laws that affect a large portion of the population | Restricting open alcohol containers on public property such as streets and parks |
| Institutional Policies | Policies put in place by established institutions or organizations such as schools, universities or other community or civic organizations | School initiated ban on alcohol at school sponsored events |
| Practices / Procedures | More informal actions typically carried by choice as opposed to required by law | Law enforcement shifting resources to emphasize party patrols. Business choosing to limit alcohol advertising |