Senate Passes Bill Requiring City Resident on State Liquor Authority BY DUSICA SUE MALESEVIC One hurdle down, two to go: Legislation that would mandate New York City representation on the state agency that regulates alcoholic beverages, including licensing, passed the New York State Senate last week. In a 40 to 21 vote, the measure, introduced by State Senator Brad Hoylman, passed the chamber on Wed., June 6. The state’s Division of the Alcohol Beverage Control, known as the State Liquor Authority (SLA), is comprised of two commissioners and one chair — positions that are appointed by the governor. The legislation would require at least one member to be a New York City resident. “New York City doesn’t have a voice on that very important regulatory body,” Hoylman told NYC Community Media by phone. “We have the vast majority of licenses considered by the SLA. It only follows that New York City would have representation on the board. It’s a matter of fairness and equity.” Among other regulatory functions, the board reviews and issues licenses and permits for restaurants and bars — as well as for manufacture and the wholesale distribution of alcoholic beverages — which is an important issue for neighborhoods citywide, including Chelsea and Hell’s Kitchen. Quality of life concerns — such as smoking, noise, and hours of operation — often take center stage at SLA continued on p. 23
File photo courtesy of the Office of State Senator Brad Hoylman
Along with Assemblymember Deborah Glick, State Senator Brad Hoylman continues his quest for NYC representation on the State Liquor Authority board.
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June 14, 2018
NYC Community Media