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SB 571

Anne Arundel County - Class A (Off-Sale) and Class D (Off-Sale) Licenses - Population Ratio Quota

2025 Regular Session

SB 571 adjusts Anne Arundel County's population-based quota limits for off-premise alcohol retail licenses, altering how many liquor and beer/wine stores can legally operate.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 818
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Bill Summary · SB 571

Legislative bill overview

SB 571 modifies the population-based quota system for off-premise alcohol licenses (liquor stores and beer/wine shops) in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. The bill adjusts the ratio requirements that determine how many such licenses can operate based on the county's population, effectively changing the regulatory cap on these businesses.

Why is this important

Alcohol licensing quotas directly impact business competition, local tax revenue, and consumer access to alcohol retailers in the county. By adjusting population ratios, this bill either expands or contracts the number of licenses available, affecting existing business owners, potential entrepreneurs, and the county's regulatory landscape for decades.

Potential points of contention

  • Impact on existing license holders: Changes to quota systems can affect the market value and competitive position of current license owners
  • Small business opportunity vs. market saturation: Expanding licenses may help new entrepreneurs but could oversaturate markets and harm existing retailers
  • Local control and revenue: The county loses or gains licensing revenue and regulatory flexibility depending on which direction quotas moved

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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