To protect children from the use of alcohol and marijuana
If enacted, this bill would amend Chapter 93 of the General Laws by inserting a provision that explicitly prohibits advertising alcohol and marijuana within a specified distance of schools. This would significantly impact businesses that sell or market alcohol and marijuana products, necessitating adjustments to their advertising strategies. The broader goal is to create a healthier environment for children by reducing their exposure to adult-targeted substances, thereby supporting public health initiatives.
House Bill 111, titled 'An Act to protect children from the use of alcohol and marijuana,' aims to restrict the advertising of alcohol and marijuana products near schools. Specifically, the bill proposes that businesses shall not advertise these substances within 5,280 feet (1 mile) of a school zone. The intention behind this legislation is to minimize children's exposure to such advertisements, thus protecting them from potential influences that could encourage substance use at a young age.
Discussions around HB 111 may touch upon issues of business freedoms versus public health concerns. Proponents of the bill likely emphasize the necessity of protecting children from early exposure to substance-related messages, arguing that such protections are essential for fostering a safe and healthy community. Conversely, opponents might argue that the bill represents an overreach of regulations that could adversely affect local businesses, particularly those reliant on marketing to establish their customer base, thereby raising questions about the balance between public health and economic interests.