Alaska becomes the first U.S. state to force liquor stores and bars to post cancer warnings—stirring national debate over alcohol’s health risks.
At a Glance
- Alaska mandates cancer warnings on all alcohol sales starting August 1
- Signs must say “Alcohol use can cause cancer, including breast and colon cancers”
- Law passed unanimously and took effect without Governor Mike Dunleavy’s signature
- Led by Rep. Andrew Gray, who cited healthcare expertise in pushing the bill
- The law also lets under-21 workers serve alcohol under supervision
Alaska Makes Cancer Warnings Mandatory for Alcohol
In a bold public health move, Alaska has passed legislation requiring bars, liquor stores, and other alcohol retailers to post clear warnings linking alcohol use to cancer. Starting August 1, signs must state: “Alcohol use can cause cancer, including breast and colon cancers.” As reported by the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, this makes Alaska the first U.S. state to enforce such a mandate statewide.
The legislation, Senate Bill 15, passed unanimously in the Alaska Senate. Though Governor Mike Dunleavy did not sign the bill, he allowed it to become law. Representative Andrew Gray, a Democrat and physician assistant from Anchorage, led the charge behind the bill, citing a medical imperative to educate the public on alcohol’s cancer risk, according to The Drinks Business.
What the Law Requires and Why It Matters
The new law demands that each warning sign be at least 11 by 14 inches with letters at least half an inch high in contrasting colors to ensure readability. The signs must be posted in a “prominent location” visible to customers. As explained in the Wine Business, this specific requirement is aimed at ensuring the message cannot be missed.
In addition to warning signs, SB 15 allows individuals under 21 to work in venues that serve alcohol—as long as they do not consume alcohol and are supervised. This provision is designed to expand the state’s labor pool while maintaining restrictions on underage drinking.
National Spotlight and Global Trends
Alaska’s action joins a growing international movement to put health warnings directly on alcohol. Chile already mandates cancer warnings on alcohol labels, and Ireland has approved similar legislation set to take effect next year. Alaska’s approach may now set a precedent for U.S. states considering similar laws, as covered by the Alaska Beacon.
Public health experts have long warned of alcohol’s link to several forms of cancer. Former U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy has classified alcohol consumption as the third-leading preventable cause of cancer in America, after tobacco and obesity. Moderate consumption alone can elevate the risk of breast, liver, and colon cancer.
The Industry Reacts—and What Comes Next
The alcohol industry has yet to mount a major challenge to the law, but observers expect legal or lobbying pushback before the August deadline. Critics argue that such warnings could be misleading or overly alarmist, while health advocates say transparency is long overdue.
For now, Alaska has drawn a firm line—prioritizing public health over industry discomfort. Whether this becomes a national trend remains to be seen, but the conversation about alcohol’s true risks is clearly entering a new phase.
