66.28.280 - Three-tier system -- Intent. - Washington Statutes

Three-tier system — Intent.

The legislature recognizes that Washington's current three-tier system, where the functions of manufacturing, distributing, and retailing are distinct and the financial relationships and business transactions between entities in these tiers are regulated, is a valuable system for the distribution of beer and wine. The legislature further recognizes that the historical total prohibition on ownership of an interest in one tier by a person with an ownership interest in another tier, as well as the historical restriction on financial incentives and business relationships between tiers, is unduly restrictive. The legislature finds the modifications contained in chapter 506, Laws of 2009 are appropriate, because the modifications do not impermissibly interfere with the goals of orderly marketing of alcohol in the state, encouraging moderation in consumption of alcohol by the citizens of the state, protecting the public interest and advancing public safety by preventing the use and consumption of alcohol by minors and other abusive consumption, and promoting the efficient collection of taxes by the state.

[2009 c 506 § 1.]