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HB 987

Baltimore County - Alcoholic Beverages - Class B-OB-CRD (Office Building - Commercial Revitalization District) Beer, Wine, and Liquor License

2025 Regular Session

Maryland creates a new beer, wine, and liquor license for office buildings in Baltimore County Commercial Revitalization Districts to spur economic development and business investment.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 797
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Bill Summary · HB 987

Legislative bill overview

HB 987 creates a new Class B-OB-CRD alcoholic beverage license category in Baltimore County specifically for office buildings located in Commercial Revitalization Districts. This license permits the sale of beer, wine, and liquor in these designated areas, allowing businesses in revitalization zones to obtain alcohol service permits that weren't previously available for office-based establishments in those districts.

Why is this important

This bill aims to attract businesses and investment to Baltimore County's Commercial Revitalization Districts by enabling office-building tenants to operate bars, restaurants, or similar alcohol-serving establishments. By reducing regulatory barriers in areas targeted for economic development, the legislation seeks to stimulate economic activity, job creation, and tax revenue in specific geographic zones that may have experienced disinvestment.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory consistency: Creates a special license class that may be perceived as giving preferential treatment to certain geographic areas or business types, potentially raising fairness concerns from applicants in non-revitalization zones
  • Enforcement complexity: Adding a new license category increases administrative burden on Baltimore County's Liquor Board and may create confusion about which establishments qualify versus those in similar but non-designated districts
  • Public health and safety: Expanding alcohol service in office districts could raise concerns about increased nightlife, noise, and potential impacts on residential nearby areas or existing business character

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

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