Following the repeal of national prohibition in December 1933, alcohol beverage regulation was returned to the states. Iowa, along with seventeen other states and one county, decided that the public would be best served by direct control. Through six decades of social change, the original jurisdictions have never wavered in their choice to control the distribution and sale of beverage alcohol within their borders. Industry members who represent most of the major manufacturers and importers of beverage alcohol belong to the organization. Governmental members representing state, territiorial, county and foreign governmental agencies responsible for controlling distribution and sale of alcohol beverages are also eligible for membership, as are firms that conduct business with control states or the alcohol beverage industry.
All members enjoy the statistical reports provided by the organization at a nominal fee.
In 1986, Iowa became a pioneer in the association when legislation was passed dictating that the state operated retail stores be closed and that wine be distributed by the private sector. Over the next several years, other states followed suit using Iowa as a model to emulate in their privatization efforts. As a result, only three states now have only state operated retail stores. However, all jurisdictions continue to be the sole wholesaler of spirits in order to maintain state revenues. Though each state is unique in character and traditions, the states share a common purpose - to promote responsibility and moderation in the consumption of beverage alcohol.