ENFORCEMENT

By ensuring consistent application of new and existing policies and laws, enforcement plays a key role in the Environmental Change Model. However, instead of focusing on the individual who abuses alcohol or other drugs, enforcement is focused on laws relating to the access and availability of these substances, especially to youth. These would include irresponsible practices of retail businesses that tend to increase the likelihood of substance abuse. Among these would be alcohol outlets that sell to young-looking customers without proper identification and retailers who specialize in selling drug paraphernalia.

Through intentional organizing activities, partnerships are established with local, state and federal enforcement officials. This may take the form of a law enforcement task force that is formed to target a specific problem of local concern. Such groups often include CHP, local police and sheriff departments, ABC representatives, DEA, code enforcement, border patrol or military police, depending on the target problem. Once a task force is established, special undercover operations are conducted. These may include undercover purchase operations, DUI and sobriety checkpoints, or others. The results of these operations, if not the operations themselves, are often highlighted in the media to raise public awareness about the issue and deter criminal activity. They also help provide impetus for public officials to take appropriate legislative action. Once policy has been passed, work with enforcement continues to ensure compliance. Such work may include follow-up operations as well as development of improved policies and procedures .