The Spanish government has taken a significant step toward tackling underage drinking by approving the country’s first comprehensive law to regulate alcohol consumption among minors. The new bill, which must still pass through Congress, aims to reduce alcohol access for those under 18 by introducing stricter regulations on sales, advertising, and public consumption.

A Nationwide Ban on Underage Drinking

Currently, Spain prohibits the sale of alcohol to minors, but consumption is only restricted in some regions. The proposed law would make it illegal for anyone under 18 to drink alcohol in any part of the country, closing a loophole that previously allowed underage drinking in many areas.

Tightened Advertising and Sponsorship Rules

The legislation seeks to curb alcohol advertising targeted at young people. It bans the display of alcohol-related logos and branding within 150 meters of schools, healthcare centers, and spaces where minors gather for activities.

This restriction will impact bars, restaurants, and shops that use branded furniture or promotional materials. Additionally, advertising for alcohol-free distilled spirits labeled as ‘0.0’ will be banned, except for non-alcoholic beer and wine.

New Restrictions on Alcohol Sales and Distribution

The bill expands restrictions on alcohol sales. It will be banned in schools, youth centers, and student residences with minors. Vending machines selling alcohol must have age verification and cannot be in public spaces. Authorities will also be able to conduct breathalyzer tests in areas where drinking is not allowed.

Addressing Public Concerns and Health Risks

Health Minister Mónica García emphasized the urgency of the law, stating that underage drinking is a serious issue that needs immediate action. According to the 2023 ESTUDES survey, 56% of Spanish minors aged 14-18 had consumed alcohol in the past month, and 93% said obtaining alcohol was easy. Public opinion also supports stronger regulations, with over 80% of respondents in a recent survey viewing underage drinking as a significant problem.

Measures to Support Prevention and Education

The law includes initiatives to educate families and schools about the dangers of alcohol. Schools will introduce prevention programs in their curriculum, while parents will receive guidance on reducing underage drinking. The health sector will also play a role, in making sure that minors treated for alcohol-related incidents receive follow-up care and support.

Parliamentary Approval Needed

The proposed law marks Spain’s first national effort to comprehensively regulate alcohol consumption among minors. While it still requires approval from Congress, the legislation represents a milestone in public health policy, aiming to create a safer environment for young people and reduce the long-term impact of underage drinking.

The new alcohol bill aims to promote responsible drinking, but it comes with some challenges. Enforcing age verification on vending machines and carrying out breathalyzer tests in public areas could be difficult and require significant resources.

Businesses may also struggle with the ban on branded promotional materials, including outdoor furniture commonly provided by alcohol and beer companies, which many bars and restaurants rely on.

The restrictions on advertising alcohol-free spirits seem inconsistent, especially since non-alcoholic beer and wine are still allowed to be promoted.

Additionally, giving authorities the power to conduct breath tests in certain areas raises concerns about privacy and how fairly the rules will be applied. While the bill introduces important measures to reduce alcohol-related harm, its success will depend on how well these new rules are enforced and whether they create more confusion than real change.