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HB 415

Prince George's County - Alcoholic Beverages - Class A Beer and Class A Beer and Wine Licenses - Retail Grocery Establishments PG 304-26

2026 Regular Session

Prince George's County expands alcohol licenses to allow grocery stores to sell beer and wine, increasing retail access and competition.

First Reading Economic Matters and Government, Labor, and Elections
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Bill Summary · HB 415

Legislative bill overview

HB 415 modifies Prince George's County regulations to allow retail grocery establishments to obtain Class A Beer and Class A Beer and Wine licenses. Currently, these licenses are restricted to specific establishment types, and this bill expands eligibility to include grocery stores in the county's alcoholic beverage licensing framework.

Why is this important

This change affects consumer access to beer and wine products in grocery stores, potentially increasing convenience for shoppers and generating additional revenue for grocery retailers and the county. It also reflects a broader trend in Maryland jurisdictions toward modernizing alcohol sales regulations to align with consumer shopping patterns.

Potential points of contention

  • Competition concerns: Existing beer and wine retailers (liquor stores, specialty shops) may oppose expanded grocery store licenses as competitive threats to their business models
  • Public health considerations: Some advocates may raise concerns about increased alcohol accessibility in high-traffic grocery stores and proximity to other consumer goods
  • Implementation details: Questions about enforcement, signage requirements, age verification procedures, and whether the expansion includes all grocery formats or only certain sizes/types of establishments

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

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