Mission Statement

Chapter 478 of the Laws of 1934, known as the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law, created the State Liquor Authority and the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control. The Legislature enacted this measure "for the protection, health, welfare and safety of the people of the State."

The SLA has two main functions: issuing licenses and ensuring compliance with the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law. The Authority's Licensing Bureaus are responsible for the timely processing of permits and licenses required by the ABC Law. The Compliance Unit is responsible for the protection of the public by working with local law enforcement agencies to uphold the law and bring administrative action against licensees who violate the law.

The Authority seeks to:

• respect applicants and licensees;
• work cooperatively with community groups and local leaders to ensure public participation in the licensing and enforcement process;
• increase productivity by utilizing necessary resources, education and training to successfully deliver a quality service to our customers;
• ensure that those who do not respect the privileges of holding a license are fairly and firmly disciplined; and
• create a unified, comprehensive approach to all Agency functions to achieve maximum effectiveness and efficiency.

The major responsibilities of the Authority are:

• reviewing applications and investigating applicants to determine license eligibility;
• issuing all licenses and permits for the manufacture, wholesale distribution and retail sale of any and all alcoholic beverages;
• regulating trade and credit practices related to the sale and distribution of alcoholic beverages at wholesale and retail levels;
• investigating licensees in connection with violations of the ABC Law;
• working with local law enforcement agencies to ensure compliance with the ABC Law;
• bringing disciplinary charges against licensees when appropriate;
• conducting disciplinary proceedings and hearings;
• revoking, canceling or suspending for cause any license or permit, and/or imposing monetary penalties where appropriate;
• inspecting premises where alcoholic beverages are manufactured or sold;
• exercising the Authority's discretion regarding the number and type of licenses issued as determined by public convenience and advantage; and
• promulgating rules to implement the ABC Law.