Acting U.S. Surgeon General Visits RI

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - Acting U.S. Surgeon General Steven K. Galson joined Governor and Mrs. Carcieri to promote a Call to Action to prevent and reduce underage drinking.  The Carcieris invited Galson to Rhode Island to meet with state leaders and encourage lawmakers to discuss the dangers of underage drinking. 

"Alcohol remains the most heavily abused substance by America's youth," said Galson.  "This Call to Action is attempting to change the culture and attitudes toward drinking in America.  We can no longer ignore what alcohol is doing to our youth."

Sue Caricieri is a member of the National Leadership to Keep Children Alcohol Free. 

Galson is also scheduled to address the Rhode Island Senate and the House of Representatives later in the day.

On Friday, Galson is scheduled to visit an elementary school in Pawtucket to promote his Healthy Youth for a Healthy Future initiative. He will also take in a private roundtable discussion about childhood obesity in Rhode Island.