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Changing Mississippi Alcohol Laws in 2022

man holding a book about mississippi alcohol laws

Liquor laws in Mississippi have a long-standing tradition of being stricter than other parts of the United States. In 2021, prohibition in the state officially ended, though many counties and cities had already lifted restrictions on alcohol sales and consumption. However, there are many antiquated laws still on the books that could potentially change in 2022.

While updating some of these laws could bring Mississippi in line with the rest of the country and could make it easier for craft beer brewers and distillers to do business in the state, others worry that any changes could lead to increased alcohol consumption and related problems. For those who are struggling to moderate their alcohol intake, an alcohol rehab center in Mississippi can help.

Recent Mississippi Liquor Law Updates and Potential Changes

Although history tells of Prohibition ending in 1933 with the 21st amendment, this was not the case in Mississippi. Statewide prohibition was in place until 1966, and in 2020, Mississippi was still home to several dry counties. On January 1, 2021, this changed as a new law went into effect that allowed the possession of alcohol in every county in the state. Although possession of alcohol is now legal everywhere in the state for those over 21, alcohol sales in Mississippi are still limited in some areas. It is up to the individual counties to vote to make alcohol sales legal in these counties.

Along with this new update, other changes could be ahead for Mississippi alcohol laws in 2022. Currently, Mississippi’s Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) has control over where alcohol can be sold and who can sell it. For example, wine can’t be found in grocery stores, and it can only be ordered and distributed through the state’s warehouse.

While a recent bill to privatize the state’s alcohol distribution system was unsuccessful, it is possible that this issue will be revisited in the future. If the ABC were to be privatized, it would mean big changes for how alcohol is distributed and sold in Mississippi.

Alcohol Laws and Alcohol Use

Besides the potential economic impact of changing these Mississippi alcohol laws, there could be some other unexpected effects. Part of the reason some dry countries have such strict alcohol laws in place is in an attempt to limit the number of alcohol-related concerns and issues for residents like drunk driving, underage drinking, and alcoholism, but is this approach effective? In some cases, the answer seems to be yes.

There is evidence to suggest that states with stricter alcohol laws regarding drinking and driving in particular also had fewer car crash fatalities for teenagers and young children. Other studies suggest that stricter alcohol laws like controlled monopolies on alcohol sales, limited hours for alcohol sales, and reduced outlet numbers are associated with reduced alcohol use and alcohol-related problems. According to these reports, as alcohol laws in Mississippi and other states are loosened, it could potentially lead to secondary problems.

Help for Alcohol Addiction at Woodland Recovery Center – Mississippi

Along with there being a possibility of more alcohol-related injuries or drunk driving incidents, there could also be a greater need for alcoholism treatment in Mississippi. At Woodland Recovery Center Mississippi, we are here to help if you need it. Regardless of where you are or what laws are in place, alcohol misuse and use are common. If you or someone you love is struggling with drinking, get help. Lasting, sustainable sobriety is possible, and our team can assist you in making it a reality.

Contact us today to learn more about our alcohol addiction treatment program in Mississippi by calling 662.222.2989 or by reaching out online.