We strive to ensure a safe, orderly and regulated system for the convenient distribution and responsible consumption of alcoholic beverages. Patterned after the alcohol beverage distribution system in Alberta, Canada, the Board was charged with the responsibility of purchasing, pricing and vending liquor in the state. In 1973, the State Legislature abolished the Liquor Control Board and transferred its responsibilities to the Department of Revenue. In 1995, the State Legislature directed the Department to convert all remaining state liquor stores to privately owned agencies.
All agencies now own their liquor inventories and are permitted to set their own retail prices.
However, the State establishes prices for liquor sold to licensees and continues to run the wholesale distribution operation. As a control state, Montana believes that moderation can best be achieved by neither promoting nor encouraging the consumption of alcohol, but by instead controlling it. The purpose of control is to make liquor available to those adults who choose to drink responsibly, but not to promote the sale of liquor. The Department of Revenue s Liquor Distribution supplies liquor to private agencies. These agencies are the exclusive retailers of liquor and fortified wine.