Bill > HB1379

This bill modernizes Maryland's alcoholic beverage licensing regulations by creating a new pathway for certain retail establishments to obtain Class A alcohol licenses. Specifically, the bill allows food retailers, pharmacies, and retail service stations (such as gas stations with electric vehicle charging) to purchase existing Class A licenses from current license holders if they are located within 3,000 feet of a license holder. If the existing license holder does not accept the offer, the retail establishment can apply directly to the local licensing board for a Class A beer or beer and wine license. To qualify, these establishments must meet specific criteria, including having a minimum of 4,000 square feet of space, offering a diverse range of food products, and being located a certain distance from schools and residential properties. The bill includes several restrictions on these new licensees, such as requiring sworn security personnel, limiting sales hours to 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, prohibiting self-scanning alcohol sales, delivery of alcoholic beverages, and sales of individual small cans or bottles of mixed cocktails or malt beverages. The license holders must also complete an approved alcohol awareness training program. The new regulations are set to take effect on July 1, 2025, aiming to provide more flexibility in alcohol sales while maintaining strict oversight and community safety.