Governor Mikie Sherrill announced on May 11 the nomination of Paul Thomas Urbish, currently a director at the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission, to serve as the next Director of the New Jersey Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control. The announcement comes as the agency prepares for events associated with upcoming World Cup matches.
The nomination is significant because ABC regulates a major sector that affects both public safety and economic activity in New Jersey. If confirmed by the State Senate, Urbish would oversee regulation and enforcement concerning alcoholic beverages in the state.
Urbish has worked in public service for about ten years, including previous roles at ABC and as head of compliance and investigations at the Cannabis Regulatory Commission. “With his background in licensing, investigations, and regulating the products of New Jersey’s burgeoning legal cannabis industry, and his experience with alcoholic beverage permitting and appeals, Paul understands the important balance between enabling businesses to thrive and ensuring compliance with guardrails and consumer safety,” said Governor Sherrill. “His history of regulating and fostering a fledging industry will be an asset to the ABC, which similarly oversees a sector that is constantly undergoing transformation and forms a vital part of New Jersey’s economy.”
Attorney General Jennifer Davenport said: “As ABC continues to streamline processes and build an alcohol regulation system based in integrity, safety, and economic opportunity, we welcome Paul Urbish’s exceptional leadership to balance the needs of industry while protecting residents. I look forward to him joining our leadership team at the Department of Law and Public Safety.” Davenport also thanked Kirstin Krueger for her work as Interim ABC Director since April 1.
Urbish said: “I’m grateful to Governor Sherrill for the opportunity to rejoin ABC and I’m excited to work with Attorney General Davenport and the ABC team. I look forward to working diligently to protect residents, ensure that local businesses are operated lawfully and responsibly, and that our businesses have the necessary flexibility to accommodate an unprecedented wave of tourism this summer.”
According to his biography provided by state officials, Urbish previously served as Deputy Attorney General at ABC from 2018-2021 before moving into his current role overseeing compliance within cannabis regulation. He holds degrees from The College of New Jersey (history) and Temple University’s James E. Beasley School of Law (juris doctor).
ABC’s statutory mission is focused on moderation in alcohol consumption; maintaining lawful trade practices; protecting citizens; supporting fair business environments; ensuring tax collection related to alcoholic beverages; all within its regulatory authority over manufacture through sale across New Jersey.
The Office led by Attorney General Matthew Platkin provides legal representation for state agencies while overseeing law enforcement activities throughout all counties according to the official website. It also manages consumer protection initiatives statewide.
