MD HB1441

Citations for public consumption of alcohol (§ 6-321) and open container violations (§ 6-322) under the Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article must include notice that fines may be prepaid and that prepayment constitutes a guilty plea

Maximum fine for these violations is set at $100, with the Chief Judge of the District Court required to establish a prepayment schedule

Individuals receiving a citation may request a hearing within 30 days of issuance as an alternative to prepayment

If a person fails to prepay the fine, request a hearing, or respond to a summons, the court may hold a hearing and impose up to the maximum fine plus court costs

Effective date: October 1, 2026