Which authority is primarily responsible for regulating alcohol sales in a state?

The state’s Alcoholic Beverage Control board is primarily responsible for regulating alcohol sales in a state. This board or agency is established by state law to oversee the distribution, sale, and consumption of alcoholic beverages. It implements state laws, issues permits and licenses, enforces regulations, and ensures compliance with both state and federal laws regarding alcohol.

While the federal government establishes overarching regulations, particularly concerning interstate commerce and tax collection, the actual enforcement and finer details are managed at the state level. Local city councils may have some authority to regulate alcohol sales like establishing local ordinances or zoning laws, but they typically operate within the framework set by the state’s Alcoholic Beverage Control board. Alcohol manufacturers are primarily involved in producing the beverages but do not have a regulatory role concerning alcohol sales.