Senate Joint Resolution 289, sponsored by Briggs, honors the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) on its sixtieth anniversary. The resolution highlights the historical context of alcohol regulation in the United States, beginning with the ratification of the 18th Amendment in 1919, which prohibited alcohol, and the subsequent 21st Amendment in 1933 that allowed states to regulate alcohol. The TABC was established in 1963 to oversee alcohol regulation and enforcement in Tennessee, aiming to eliminate illegal bootlegging and create a safe marketplace. The commission is composed of three governors-appointed commissioners and is supported by a dedicated staff of 90 members, including law enforcement personnel.
The resolution commends the TABC for its significant role in permitting over 140,000 individuals and licensing more than 9,000 businesses involved in the alcohol industry. It acknowledges the commission's efforts in ensuring compliance with state laws and protecting minors from alcohol sales through partnerships with local law enforcement. The Senate and House of Representatives express their appreciation for the TABC's service to the citizens of Tennessee and extend their best wishes for continued success in the future.