Deputy Director Rick Garza begins term as president of national association

OLYMPIA - Washington State Liquor Control Board (WSLCB) deputy director Rick Garza recently began his term as the appointed president of the National Association of State Liquor Administrators (NCSLA). His term began on July 1, 2012.

“I have had the privilege and pleasure of working with Rick on the NCSLA Executive Committee for a number of years,” said NCSLA immediate past president William “Bill” Kelley of Massachusetts. “As I mentioned to the assembled membership of the NCSLA in Washington D.C., in this past year Rick has faced what no other liquor administrator in this nation has been called on to face. Rick, along with his board's chairwoman, board members and administrator, acted with only the highest professionalism and balanced thoughtfulness that is an example to us all.”


The NCSLA consists of both private and state-controlled alcohol retail and distribution systems representing several states. In general, the NCSLA seeks to promote:

  • effective and equitable state and federal alcohol legislation and policy;
  • best alcohol enforcement practices and policy;
  • uniformity between the state and federal government on alcohol policy; and
  • uniformity among the states on alcohol policy.

“The Liquor Control Board has benefited from Rick’s extensive experience and skill in working with the legislature on complex policy matters,” said WSLCB chair Sharon Foster. “Together with his experience in Washington State these past two years, Rick’s insight will continue to be critical to other states.”

Rick is currently the WSLCB deputy director, where he leads the agency’s policy, legislation and media relations. Rick has been with the Liquor Control Board since 1997 and also serves as its legislative and tribal liaison.

Prior to joining the Liquor Control Board, Rick served 13 years as a staff member for the Washington State Legislature, including five years with the Washington State Senate and eight years with the state House. His legislative assignments included policy analyst in the state Senate, House of Representatives staff director, and adviser to House and Senate leadership.

Note to Editor:  Mr. Garza was born and raised in Grandview, WA.

 

 

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