A new University study shows an unsurprising, yet disturbing correlation between the availability of cheap liquor and poor neighborhoods. The study, which spanned 10 U.S. cities, found that significantly more liquor stores were present in poor neighborhoods with higher concentrations of African-Americans. Discerning the magnitude of the correlation between the flow of liquor and homicides, as the study set out to do, may not be possible, but the study identifies further issues that are harming our most devastated communities.

In addition to the high number of liquor stores in poverty-stricken areas, the study named one culprit that consistently showed up: malt liquor. These beverages feature a higher alcoholic content than beer and a very low price. The study found that on average, 40 ounces of malt liquor costs only $1.87.

In the most basic sense, the presence and cost of these liquors is simple capitalism. The marketing efforts and availability of malt liquor in poor neighborhoods is no coincidence. But these products are far from benign; they are destroying lives.

At the very least, city leaders should investigate and hold hearings on this topic. While malt liquor is only one piece of a very messy puzzle, it might be one factor that can be managed to help communities, if only slightly.

Some cities have considered implementing zones where certain alcohols are not permitted to be sold. Tacoma, Wash., implemented such a program over five years ago, and city officials say they have seen measurable positive results.

We need more information that specifically pertains to Minneapolis and St. Paul before taking that kind of action, but it should certainly be on the table. For the time being, our city needs to investigate this further to determine if crime and quality of life could be positively impacted by shrinking the influence of such a damaging substance.