In an effort to curb alcohol-related accidents and address societal concerns, Poland is contemplating a ban on alcohol sales at gas stations during nighttime hours. Minister of Health, Izabela Leszczyna, has proposed implementing this measure starting January 1, 2025, pending further stages of legislative approval.
Project Development and Legislative Timeline
Minister Leszczyna has indicated that the proposal is ready and awaits governmental programming. She aims for the draft to reach Parliament post-summer, ensuring comprehensive societal consultations before final decisions.
Leszczyna emphasized the importance of inclusive public consultations, acknowledging the diverse stakeholders—business entities, NGOs, and the general public—who will contribute valuable feedback. This input will inform the decision-making process, ensuring thorough consideration of all perspectives.
Health and Economic Perspectives
Alcohol-related statistics underscore the urgency: in the first half of 2024 alone, drunk driving incidents resulted in 37 fatalities and 641 injuries. Moreover, the economic accessibility of alcohol has risen significantly since 2002, contributing to broader societal challenges highlighted by reports from the State Agency for Solving Alcohol Problems (PARPA) and the National Center for Countering Addictions.