Mercer Times

Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin has announced the retirement of James B. Graziano, who has served as the Director of the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) for over five years. Reflecting on Graziano's tenure, Attorney General Platkin praised him, stating, "Jim Graziano has been an exemplary public servant and led ABC through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and changes in the industry with professionalism and fairness."

In response to Graziano's retirement, Deputy Director Kirstin Krueger will step in as Interim Director. Attorney General Platkin expressed his confidence in Krueger, highlighting her expertise in alcoholic beverage laws and experience as a government attorney and former prosecutor. Platkin commended Krueger for taking on the leadership role, stating, "I am thankful to her for stepping up to lead ABC at this time."

Director Graziano himself expressed gratitude for his time in public service, stating, "It has been my honor to serve the state as Director of the ABC to regulate an ever-changing alcoholic beverage industry through creative and innovative means." Graziano also praised Attorney General Platkin, calling him a "terrific partner" and expressing his pleasure in working with the Attorney General and his staff.

Graziano's tenure saw significant developments within the ABC, including adaptations to the state ABC Act to meet the needs of licensees, the creation of new permits, and collaborations with external stakeholders. One notable achievement was the collaboration between Director Graziano and the Attorney General to issue a Special Ruling in June 2021, which vacated all ABC enforcement actions that had targeted gay bars between 1933 and 1967. This initiative was followed by mandatory anti-bias training for ABC employees to address implicit bias within the Division.

Deputy Director Krueger, who will assume the role of Interim Director on April 1, 2024, brings a wealth of experience to the position. With a background in law enforcement and a J.D. from Brooklyn Law School, Krueger has been instrumental in overseeing investigations and enforcement work at ABC, including coordination with municipal and State law enforcement agencies.

Director Graziano's legacy at ABC is marked by his dedication to regulatory innovation and collaboration with stakeholders, leaving a lasting impact on the alcoholic beverage industry in New Jersey. As Deputy Director Krueger transitions into the role of Interim Director, the ABC looks towards continued progress under her leadership.