MD SB75

Food retailers may offer to purchase a Class A alcoholic beverage license from an existing license holder located within 3,000 feet, at fair market value

Food retailers acquiring a Class A license through purchase are limited to selling only beer or beer and wine, regardless of what the original license permitted

If a license holder declines the purchase offer, the food retailer may apply directly to the local licensing board for a Class A beer or beer and wine license

Qualifying food retailers must have at least 3,200 square feet, accept SNAP benefits, sell products in at least 5 of 6 food categories, and meet distance requirements from schools, places of worship, and residential properties

Applications from food retailers are presumed to be in the community's best interest and may only be denied for reasons traditionally considered by local licensing boards; effective July 1, 2026