The New York State Liquor Authority ("SLA" or "Authority") and it's agency arm, the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) were established as part of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law (ABC Law) in 1934. The ABC Law was enacted by the Legislature to provide for the protection, health, welfare and safety of the people of the State.

The SLA has two main functions: issuing licenses and permits, and ensuring compliance with the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law. The Authority's licensing activities focus on the timely processing of permits and licenses. The Authority's enforcement activities focus on the protection of the public by working with local law enforcement agencies and local communities to bring administrative actions against licensees who violate the law.

The SLA works cooperatively with licensees, applicants, local law enforcement agencies, community groups, and our other partners across the state to ensure the industry is regulated in a fair and consistent manner.