Bill > SB800

This bill establishes a new Arts Beer and Wine License specifically for Dorchester County, allowing nonprofit or for-profit businesses primarily focused on art—such as art centers, galleries, and museums—to sell and serve beer and wine for on-premises consumption. The license can only be issued to businesses located in an approved arts and entertainment district that display and sell original artwork, not commercially mass-produced artistic products. The license permits beer and wine sales daily between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. when snacks are served, with an annual fee of $250. The bill also modifies existing alcohol licensing restrictions by allowing the license to be issued within 300 feet of a place of worship or school, provided the board receives written consent from those entities. The license is non-transferable to another location, and the licensing board may adopt regulations to implement these provisions. The new licensing option is designed to support and enhance arts-focused businesses in Dorchester County by providing them with a pathway to serve alcoholic beverages, potentially creating additional revenue streams and attracting more patrons to arts venues. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

Dorchester County Senators

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0800?ys=2025RS