The Twenty-first Amendment: A Constitutional Shift in Alcohol Regulation

Definition & Meaning

The Twenty-first Amendment to the United States Constitution is the amendment that repealed the Eighteenth Amendment, which had established national Prohibition. Ratified in 1933, it restored the authority to regulate alcohol to individual states, allowing them to set their own laws concerning the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A state may choose to allow the sale of alcohol on Sundays, while another state may prohibit it. This variation is a direct result of the authority granted by the Twenty-first Amendment.

Example 2: A local government enacts an ordinance to regulate the hours during which alcohol can be sold, reflecting the state's ability to set specific rules under the amendment. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

State Alcohol Regulation
California Allows alcohol sales in grocery stores and has no statewide restrictions on Sunday sales.
Texas Restricts alcohol sales on Sundays until noon and has specific licensing requirements for vendors.
New York Permits alcohol sales in various venues but has strict rules on advertising and promotions.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition
Eighteenth Amendment Established national Prohibition, banning the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcohol.
Prohibition The period during which the Eighteenth Amendment was in effect, from 1920 to 1933.
Alcohol Control Laws State-specific regulations governing the sale and consumption of alcohol.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are navigating alcohol regulations in your state, consider the following steps:

  • Research your state's specific laws regarding alcohol sales and consumption.
  • Utilize legal templates from US Legal Forms to create necessary documents or applications.
  • If you encounter complex issues or need legal advice, consult a legal professional for assistance.

Quick facts

  • Ratified: 1933
  • Repealed: Eighteenth Amendment
  • Authority: States regulate alcohol
  • Variability: Laws differ by state

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It repealed the Eighteenth Amendment and allowed states to regulate alcohol.