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Bill

HB 564

Dorchester County - Alcoholic Beverages - Venue Beer, Wine, and Liquor License

2025 Regular Session

Maryland establishes new "venue" alcoholic beverage license category in Dorchester County, enabling designated establishments to sell beer, wine, and liquor on-premises.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 820
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Bill Summary · HB 564

Legislative bill overview

HB 564 creates a new "venue" beer, wine, and liquor license category specifically for Dorchester County, Maryland. This license type allows eligible venues to sell alcoholic beverages on-premises under regulations distinct from existing license categories. The bill became law in May 2025 after passing through both chambers and receiving gubernatorial approval.

Why is this important

This legislation expands alcohol licensing options in Dorchester County, potentially stimulating economic development by enabling new or existing venues to operate with tailored regulatory requirements. The venue-specific license may attract restaurants, entertainment venues, or hospitality businesses seeking more flexible alcohol service permissions than traditional categories provide.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory clarity: The bill's passage through Finance Committee suggests details about venue qualifications, operating restrictions, and fee structures may lack transparency in public discourse, potentially creating confusion about who qualifies and under what conditions.
  • Local market impact: Existing license holders in Dorchester County may face increased competition or feel disadvantaged if the new venue category operates under more permissive terms than their current licenses allow.
  • Alcohol availability expansion: Public health advocates may express concerns about increased alcohol sales and consumption patterns in the county without corresponding evidence of public health safeguards or community benefit analysis.

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

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