§215 Labeling Requirement

Summary

After the 12-month period following November 18, 1988, it is illegal to make, import, or bottle alcoholic drinks for sale or distribution in the United States unless the container shows a government health warning. The warning must say that pregnant women should not drink because of the risk of birth defects, and that drinking can make it unsafe to drive or operate machines and can cause health problems. The warning must be easy to see, in a type size and on a contrasting background the Secretary sets; those choices had to be made within 90 days after November 18, 1988. The rule does not apply to drinks made or labeled for export or for use on a vessel or aircraft outside U.S. internal revenue laws, but it does apply to supplies sent to U.S. Armed Forces members or units. The Secretary must enforce the rule, write regulations, and work with the Surgeon General on the health message.