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HB 1335

Caroline County - Alcoholic Beverages - Special Event Venue License and Multiple Event Licenses

2025 Regular Session

Maryland's HB 1335 creates special event and multiple event alcoholic beverage licenses in Caroline County to enable easier alcohol service at temporary and recurring events.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 831
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Bill Summary · HB 1335

Legislative bill overview

HB 1335 creates new licensing categories for alcoholic beverage service in Caroline County, Maryland, specifically establishing a "Special Event Venue License" and "Multiple Event License." These licenses allow venues to serve alcohol at events with more flexible terms than traditional liquor licenses, potentially enabling restaurants, halls, and event spaces to accommodate temporary or recurring events without obtaining full-service licenses.

Why is this important

This bill expands economic opportunities for event venues and hospitality businesses in Caroline County by reducing regulatory barriers and licensing costs. It allows communities to host weddings, conferences, festivals, and other gatherings with alcohol service more easily, which can boost local tourism and venue profitability while generating additional licensing revenue for the county.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory oversight: Special event licenses may have less stringent operational requirements or oversight compared to traditional liquor licenses, raising questions about responsible alcohol service and public safety enforcement
  • Market competition: Existing full-service liquor license holders may view these new categories as unfair competition, as new venues can operate with lower costs and fewer restrictions
  • Definitional ambiguity: The bill's terms like "special event venue" and criteria for "multiple events" may create disputes over which venues qualify, potentially leading to inconsistent enforcement or legal challenges

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

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