Maryland Senate Bill SB390

Maryland 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/26
• Refer: 1/28/26
• Report Pass: 3/9/26

Caption

Wicomico County - Class A Beer, Wine, and Liquor License - Alterations

Impact

One of the core impacts of SB390 is its emphasis on preventing the issuance of more than one Class A license per county councilmanic district. This is designed to promote a controlled approach to alcohol licensing, ensuring that businesses in the area do not disproportionately benefit from these licenses. Furthermore, the bill clarifies that licenses can only be renewed for establishments that had previously been issued a Class B license before a key cutoff date, which sets a clear line in terms of market competition.

Summary

Senate Bill 390, titled 'Wicomico County - Class A Beer, Wine, and Liquor License - Alterations,' introduces significant changes to the licensing structure for alcoholic beverages in Wicomico County. The bill prohibits the Board of License Commissioners from issuing Class A beer, wine, and liquor licenses for use at certain restaurants, with a specific grandfather clause allowing existing license holders some continuance. The bill aims to establish clearer regulations around the issuance of these licenses, specifically trying to limit the potential oversaturation of licenses in the county.

Contention

While proponents of SB390 argue that these alterations will provide a more regulated and fair market for alcohol licenses in Wicomico County, especially favoring existing businesses, critics may view these restrictions as overly limiting. There is potential contention around the impact this might have on new business entrants and small restaurants that might struggle to compete if they are unable to secure a license. The grandfathering clause may also lead to disagreements regarding the equitable treatment of existing versus new establishments in the local economy.