ATTN: EDITORIAL PAGE EDITORS
This deadline extension updates information DSHS distributed earlier this week in a guest opinion by David Dickinson, Director of the Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery in DSHS. The guest opinion cited the October 25 comment deadline, which has now been extended to December 9. 

OLYMPIA -- The State Liquor Control Board has extended to December 9 the deadline for public comment on new alcohol advertising rules designed to protect underage youth. The earlier deadline was October 25.

Comments may be emailed to rules@liq.wa.gov. A public hearing will take place December 2, with the new rules scheduled to take effect January 17. For more information on the proposed rules, visit www.liq.wa.gov. 

The proposed changes will:

• Limit alcohol-related signs on licensed retail stores to four, and limit the size to 600 square inches (WAC 413-52-070)
• Eliminate the use of children in alcohol advertising (WAC 413-52-015)
  Limit alcohol advertising at community events to areas where alcohol is sold and consumed (WAC 413-52-120)
•  Remove outdoor advertising of alcohol near schools, churches, playgrounds and athletic fields (WAC 413-52-070)

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For additional information or background:
Jim Stevenson, Communications, DSHS, 360-725-1915 or pager: 360-971-4067