The Iowa Alcoholic Beverages Division (ABD) announced today it has instituted a Voluntary Disclosure Program, allowing alcohol license and permit holders to voluntarily disclose actual or potential violations of laws and rules administered by ABD.
In exchange for voluntary disclosure, license and permit holders may receive reduced penalties or other special considerations when and if ABD proposes administrative actions.
“Voluntary disclosure demonstrates credibility, good faith, trust and confidence on the part of a license or permit holder, and can foster goodwill and a positive working relationship with ABD,” said ABD’s Regulatory Compliance Bureau Chief Josh Happe. “Participation also promotes a fair and level playing field for those engaged in the alcoholic beverages marketplace, and assists ABD in its goal of protecting public health, safety and welfare.”
License and permit holders are encouraged to make voluntary disclosures as soon as any irregularity or instance of noncompliance is discovered in their business operations. ABD will consider, and may accept, voluntary disclosures that are made before ABD discovers irregularities or a formal audit or investigation is conducted.
ABD’s Voluntary Disclosure Program is based on a similar program instituted by the federal Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) in 2004.
