Bill > HB746

This bill modifies alcoholic beverage license transfer rules specifically for Baltimore County, allowing the Board of License Commissioners to approve transfers of Class B and Class D alcoholic beverages licenses under certain conditions. The bill defines an "eligible transferor district" as an election district with 10% more licenses than permitted by population-based rules. From June 1, 2025, to May 31, 2028, the Board may transfer up to five total licenses, with no more than two licenses going into any single election district. When a license transfer is requested, the county's Department of Economic and Workforce Development must be notified and will assess the potential economic impact of the transfer, particularly focusing on the future use of the property from which the license originates. The Board can deny a transfer if it determines the transfer would negatively impact the community or if an appropriate future use for the original property cannot be demonstrated. Importantly, licenses transferred under this provision cannot be further transferred or converted to another license class. The bill seeks to provide flexibility in license allocation while protecting local economic interests, and it will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0746?ys=2025RS