LINCOLN — New software is getting strong reviews and is streamlining user processes following a 16-month implementation by the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission (NLCC).
The software, known as POSSE ABC, went live back in May. The same program is utilized in nine other states for alcohol industry regulation. POSSE ABC stands for Public One-Stop Service Engine Alcohol Beverage Control. The NLCC refers to the software as POSSE.
NLCC Executive Director Hobert Rupe said the IT modernization project came in under budget and on schedule.
“This modernization is a great example of effective state procurement, as we worked with industry partners, other state agencies and local governing bodies to make a unified system that works for all stakeholders. I am very proud of our agency and our staff for the hard work and commitment to providing great service to the State of Nebraska and its citizens.”
The project was funded in 2018, when the NLCC was appropriated $3.8 million to replace mainframe infrastructure from the 1980’s, which required a great deal of manual data entry and workflow. Following a competitive bidding process, the project was awarded to Computronix in July of 2022. Upon completion, the cost came in at under $3.2 million.
One of the features of POSSE includes Brand Registration functionality, which is a new requirement in Nebraska July 1, 2024. This law requires all alcoholic liquor, prior to the sale or shipment in the State of Nebraska, be registered. Products registered are posted publicly on the NLCC website: https://lcc.nebraska.gov/brand-registration. This is the first-time alcoholic beverage products in Nebraska can be identified by their source supplier, product type, and distributor.
Applications include an interactive map that allows users to view beverage territories and the brands sold within those territories. It also displays all active liquor licenses in the state. This is the first geospatial interface by NLCC that includes that information.
“The NLCC has received overall positive responses from the liquor industry about POSSE, for its accessibility and straightforward online services for liquor license applications, liquor license renewals, industry complaints, brand registration, and excise tax reporting,” said Rupe. “POSSE also features a robust Education and Certification module which allows NLCC to move forward with improved education and training opportunities for the Nebraska liquor industry.”
Users who wish to view the interactive map can log onto: https://lcc.nebraska.gov/; navigate to the “Revenue” tab, “Beer Territory Map” OR log onto the Nebraska Spatial clearinghouse website: https://www.nebraskamap.gov/; navigate to the “Economy” data categories and select “NLCC Distribution Boundaries”
