Bill > HB1281

This bill modifies alcoholic beverage regulations for Anne Arundel County by creating a new Limited Special Event Permit for certain types of alcohol licensees, including Class B, BLX, C, D, and H licenses. The Board of License Commissioners is granted sole discretion to issue this permit, which allows license holders to provide music, dancing, and other legal forms of entertainment. Unlike the previous version of the law, which specified a "cultural" event permit with daily fees and specific date requirements, this new permit removes those restrictions and appears to provide more flexibility. The Board may not issue the permit to Class BLX or Class H license holders if their premises are within 1,000 feet of a place of worship or school. The bill also simplifies the permit application process by removing requirements for detailed event information such as specific dates and types of entertainment. The new permit expands entertainment options for license holders while maintaining oversight through the Board's discretionary approval process. The law will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving businesses and the licensing board time to prepare for the changes.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1281?ys=2025RS