Joins Governor, Legislators in Helping Protect Youth from Dangerous Machines

Annapolis, MD (April 24, 2007) - Comptroller Peter Franchot today joined legislators, public health officials and advocates in celebrating the statewide ban of Alcohol Without Liquid (AWOL) machines as Governor O'Malley signed House Bill 670, sponsored by Delegate Susan McComas, into law. AWOL machines allow users to inhale alcohol vapor at a 10-times higher concentration than regular methods of drinking and until today were unregulated. During the legislative session, the Comptroller led the fight to pass the bill by holding rallies and testifying at numerous hearings in favor of the legislation.

"As the state's regulator of alcoholic beverages, I am all too aware of the tragic and heartbreaking consequences of alcohol abuse and Marylanders are safer today because these dangerous machines are now illegal," said Comptroller Franchot. "I am proud to have worked with a bipartisan coalition of legislators, law enforcement officials and public health activists from across the state to keep AWOL machines away from vulnerable minors."

An AWOL machine is a product that vaporizes alcohol and blends the vapor with oxygen to create a mist. A person then inhales the mist through his or her mouth from the machine. In addition to the dangerous concentration levels user's experience, the machine can also impact the efficacy of Breathalyzer tests. Passage of the ban prohibits the use, purchase or sale of an AWOL machine and makes it a misdemeanor offense with a fine of up to $1000.

CONTACT:

Joe Shapiro, 410-260-7305