Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - March 31, 2000
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Locke forms Liquor Sales Task Force

OLYMPIA - Gov. Gary Locke today begins an independent citizen review of the state's role in retail liquor sales.

The Governor's Retail Liquor Sale Task Force will investigate the business operations and role of state government in liquor sales. The Washington State Liquor Control Board has managed the wholesale distribution and retail sales of hard liquor through state-owned stores and contracted agencies since 1933. These stores also sell wines and some malt beverages, as do private retail stores.

"I want this group to look at ways to better protect public health and safety. I want them to look at improved enforcement and control of laws. There may be ways business can enhance efficiency, service, convenience and profitability," Locke said. "I know this is a sensitive issue for many people. It has a long history of controversy in our state. For that reason, the task force is balanced in make-up: business, labor, law enforcement, local government, public health, the clergy, citizens, and the tribes have representation."

Locke named Bernie Dochnahl of Renton as chair of the group. Dochnahl currently is president and executive director of a company that works to solve problems of poverty. She also has served as the chairman of the Health Care Services Commission for former Gov. Mike Lowry and is active in community, health care and children's issues. The 18 members will examine the Liquor Control Board's retail sales division. They will determine how the operation measures up to generally-accepted business practices and similar operations in other states. The governor also asked the group to evaluate the state's liquor sales monopoly in light of other alternatives - including privatization of liquor sales.

Locke said the task force study is designed to be a thorough, balanced, and objective effort. The group will have its first meeting April 19 and will submit a report to the governor by December 1 with recommendations for improvements or changes in operations.

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