Contrary to the Alco-Buddy’s company name, Safe Living, breathalyzers in the bars are not safe. They actually have been shown to cause harm.

Research shows that putting breathalyzers in bars causes more risk than benefit. Providing breathalyzer feedback to people who have been drinking seems like it would make sense to reduce risk of them driving while intoxicated. However, out of 30 possible high-risk drinking prevention strategies that have been researched by the EverFi Alcohol Prevention Coalition, breathalyzer feedback is the only strategy on the negative side of the effectiveness scale.

In the 1980s, breathalyzers were introduced in bars so that patrons could measure their BAC before getting behind the wheel. While this was intended to promote more moderate consumption, it became a means of competition with bar-goers attempting to out-drink one another. Ultimately, the bar owners had them removed.

I fully support student entrepreneurship, success and good intentions. ISU students want to socialize and have fun in a safe environment, however, putting breathalyzer machines in the bars poses an unnecessary risk.