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HB 655

Wicomico County - Alcoholic Beverages - Temporary To-Go Event Permit and Class C Per Diem Municipal To-Go Beer, Wine, and Liquor License

2025 Regular Session

Maryland allows Wicomico County to issue temporary event and daily to-go alcohol permits, lowering licensing barriers for businesses and event operators.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 795
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Bill Summary · HB 655

Legislative bill overview

HB 655 establishes new alcoholic beverage licensing options for Wicomico County, Maryland, including a temporary to-go event permit and a per diem municipal to-go license for beer, wine, and liquor. The bill allows local businesses and event organizers greater flexibility in selling alcoholic beverages for off-premises consumption during specific events or on a daily basis without maintaining permanent licenses.

Why is this important

This legislation expands economic opportunities for small businesses, restaurants, and event venues in Wicomico County by reducing regulatory barriers and licensing costs for temporary or occasional alcohol sales. It can increase local tax revenue, support tourism and special events, and provide consumers with more purchasing options while remaining under local regulatory oversight.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory oversight concerns: Temporary permits and per diem licenses may be more difficult to monitor for compliance with alcohol service laws, potentially increasing risks of underage sales or over-service
  • Local business impact: Permanent license holders may view new temporary options as unfair competition that undercuts their established businesses and licensing investments
  • Public safety questions: More dispersed alcohol sales points could complicate law enforcement's ability to track consumption patterns and respond to alcohol-related incidents in the county

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

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