7-Member Body to Review Alcoholic Beverage Industry and Regulatory Structure in Massachusetts

BOSTON — Treasurer Deb Goldberg today announced the Treasurer’s Alcohol Task Force, which will convene an independent group of professionals to examine the legal and regulatory framework governing the alcoholic beverage industry in Massachusetts. The Task Force will provide an assessment of the current climate and advise on any improvements necessary to execute the business of alcohol regulation. Partner at Choate, Hall & Stewart LLP, E. Macey Russell will chair the group.

“It is clear that our alcohol laws and regulatory structure have been in need of an exhaustive review for some time,” said Treasurer Deb Goldberg. “The report of this Task Force is critical to providing the best structure that meets the expectation of effective and safe oversight.”

The diverse group of thought leaders is tasked with making a comprehensive assessment of the current alcoholic beverage industry and its regulatory structure in Massachusetts. They will establish working groups made up of relevant stakeholders focused on specific areas and topics associated with the industry and its oversight. The task force, which consists of appointees selected by Treasurer Deb Goldberg, Governor Charles Baker, Senate President Stan Rosenberg, and Speaker of the House Robert DeLeo will provide a preliminary report to the Treasurer within 6 months of convening.

The Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission (ABCC) is an agency under the Office of the State Treasurer and Receiver General Deb Goldberg. Its overall objective is to provide uniform control over the sale, purchase, transportation, manufacture, and possession of alcoholic beverages in the state.

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