As a public health professional in Virginia, I cannot support an extension of happy hour rules. Current rules are in place to balance public health risks with business operations. This petition is correct - great strides have been made in lowering the number of alcohol-related fatalities - but that is because we have safeguards in place as a control state to allow for this accomplishment. Research shows that lowering the cost of alcohol encourages increased drinking habits, and our young adults, a population that is most likely out during these later hours, are most vulnerable when it comes to overconsumption. We also know from research that most DUIs happen between the hours of 11pm and 4am. By allowing happy hour discounts later into the night, Virginia ABC would be increasing the likelihood of overconsumption and drinking and driving, but as a state authority, the ABC should continue to prioritize public health and safety. On a more anecdotal note, I can't even think of a restaurant/bar off the top of my head that currently holds happy hour all the way until 9pm, so it seems many businesses agree with prioritizing public health and safety by ending their happy hours even before the current restrictions mandate.