By MATT CHANDLER
Buffalo Law Journal

A Buffalo lawyer has been tapped by Gov. David Paterson to be the next chairman of the State Liquor Authority.

Paterson nominated Assistant New York Attorney General Dennis Rosen to replace outgoing chairman Daniel Boyle.

Rosen has been an assistant attorney general since 1982. Paterson cited his work as the lead attorney in a statewide investigation of "pay-to-play" practices within the liquor industry as a key to his selection.

"His unquestionable character and obvious expertise will provide the SLA with the leadership it needs," Paterson said. "He will be a force for change and reform at the SLA."

If confirmed by the state Senate for the post, likely to occur within the next three weeks, Rosen will serve a three-year-term as the head of the three-member panel. The SLA is charged with issuing licenses and ensuring compliance with the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law.

Rosen said he is "very honored" to be chosen to lead the Authority and noted that there are issues the liquor industry is facing today that he looks forward to addressing.

"It's going to be an exciting time, and I've been told that I will have the full support of the governor's office in tackling those issues," he said.

Asked whether he would view the appointment as a chance to shine some light on Western New York, Rosen noted that the two commissioners he would be working with are both from New York City.

"It is a good thing for the area. I think it is good to have balance in a state agency," he said.

"I think the primary factor for instigating my selection was the fact that I conducted the investigation of the liquor industry," an investigation, Rosen said, that was born in Western New York. "From this Buffalo office, we conducted what was a major statewide investigation, and I think one of the things that demonstrates is that Western New York has a very, very powerful presence in the state."

If confirmed, Rosen will receive an annual salary of $120,800.