Bill > HB766

This bill establishes a new type of alcoholic beverage license, a Class C-PCL (premium cigar lounge) license, which can be issued by local licensing boards to businesses that are already licensed as "tobacconists" (retail tobacco businesses that sell premium cigars and pipe tobacco for on-site and off-site consumption). This new license allows these businesses to permit customers to consume alcoholic beverages on their premises between 10 a.m. and 1 a.m. daily, provided the alcohol is brought by the customer, the customer also purchases and consumes products sold by the lounge, and at least one certified employee is present. Importantly, businesses holding this license are exempt from the Clean Indoor Air Act, meaning smoking will be permitted, but they must demonstrate adequate air filtration and exhaust systems, post signage indicating smoking is allowed, and have employees acknowledge they will be exposed to secondhand smoke. To qualify for this license, a tobacconist must derive at least 70% of their total daily receipts from the sale of premium cigars, pipe tobacco, and related accessories, and must submit an annual sales report to prove compliance. The annual fee for this license is $100. Additionally, the bill prohibits county clerks from issuing a tobacco products retailer license to a business located directly next to a healthcare facility or a child care facility.

Government Affairs

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0766?ys=2026RS