Bill > HB754

This bill modifies the notice requirements for the Harford County Board of License Commissioners when holding public hearings on proposed regulatory changes or processing license applications. The key changes allow the Board more flexibility in how it provides public notice, specifically permitting them to publish notices either in a newspaper of general circulation or online on their website. For license application hearings, the Board can now choose between publishing notice twice in successive weeks in a county newspaper or posting the notice online at least 14 days before the hearing date. Similarly, for publishing decisions on new licenses, license upgrades, or location changes, the Board can now publish the decision either in a local newspaper or on their website. The bill also maintains existing requirements for physical posting of notices for new license applications, including a conspicuous sign at the proposed location that must be at least 12 by 18 inches and remain posted for 20 days before the hearing. These changes provide the Harford County licensing board with more modern and potentially cost-effective methods of public communication while still ensuring transparency. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0754?ys=2025RS