The Director Of New Jersey Alcoholic Beverage Control Just Resigned


The director of New Jersey’s Alcoholic Beverage Control submitted his resignation this morning, effective June 30.

Mike Halfacre, who has held the position for three years, didn’t give a reason for his departure but some speculate that he wants to find a job outside Gov. Chris Christie’s administration before the governor either runs for president or his term expires  in 2018.

So why is this a big deal? Because Halfacre was instrumental in implementing laws that dramatically reformed the state’s brewing and distilling regulations. The Garden State Craft Brewers Guild, as well as prominent beer fest producers, considers him an ally in helping them navigate unfamiliar and tricky rules. And last spring, he worked with them to figure out common-sense regulations for festivals so that reputable organizers could continue to introduce craft breweries to consumers while ensuring that they didn’t promote irresponsible drinking.

So yes, the brewing and distilling enthusiasts in Jersey are, understandably, a little bit worried right now. We’ll keep you posted on any further developments.