LCB Presents at House Regulated Substances and Gaming work session
On Thursday, Jan. 12, 2023, a panel of Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB) staff presented to legislators during a House Regulated Substances and Gaming Committee work session, which discussed alcohol regulation and current issues in the industry. The full recording of the work session is available to view here. Speakers from the LCB included:
- Rick Garza, Director
- Jim Vollendroff, Board Member
- Becky Smith, Licensing Division Director
- Justin Nordhorn, Policy and External Affairs Director
- Chandra Wax, Enforcement and Education Division Director
- Lisa Reinke, Enforcement and Education Division Deputy Chief
- Mary Segawa, Public Health Education Liaison
The session began with an overview of the LCB’s organizational structure, mission, vision and goals. Director Garza provided some context on alcohol regulation in Washington State throughout history, including prohibition, liquor control, alcohol retail systems, distribution and privatization.
Licensing Division Director Becky Smith discussed the alcohol licensing process and RVP/MAST educational programs. She provided data on current liquor licenses, including applications, special occasions, and winery, brewery and distillery licenses. She also addressed temporary endorsements, alcohol delivery and sports entertainment facilities.
LCB’s newest Board Member, Jim Vollendroff, introduced himself to the committee and fielded several questions.
Enforcement and Education provided an overview of the division, compliance rates, industry violations in 2022 and current challenges they are facing. Some of these challenges included a drop in compliance rates among licensees and third-party delivery companies, vacancies in the division and training availability.
To close, Public Health Education Liaison Mary Segawa briefly addressed agency initiatives, collaboration, education and outreach to promote consumer safety and prevent youth access.
