Maryland Senate Bill 824 Sparks Opposition From Charles County Liquor Store Owners
LA PLATA, Md. — A proposed bill in the Maryland Senate is drawing sharp opposition from local liquor store owners in Charles County, who fear it will harm small businesses.
Senate Bill 824, introduced by Sen. Cory McCray, aims to repeal the prohibition on issuing Class A alcoholic beverage licenses to chain stores, supermarkets, and discount stores. If passed, the bill would allow these types of businesses to obtain Class A licenses, which generally permit the sale of alcohol for off-premises consumption.
Currently, local licensing boards cannot issue these licenses to chain stores, supermarkets, or discount houses. The bill seeks to remove that restriction, potentially expanding where alcohol can be sold in Maryland. If enacted, the bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.
At the Feb. 13, 2025, meeting of the Charles County Board of License Commissioners, several independent liquor store owners voiced strong opposition. The owner of Lee’s Market in Indian Head, who has operated the business since 2017, expressed deep concern about the potential impact.
“This bill is going to affect my family, my employees, and every customer who comes here,” the owner said. “We have a Class D license, and our store is more than just a business—it’s a gathering place for retired veterans, families, and our community.”
Other local businesses, including White Plains Liquor and Murphy’s Liquor Store in Port Tobacco, have also opposed the bill, citing fears of losing customers to large retail chains.
Tom Coyle, past president of the Waldorf Elks Club, echoed these concerns, stating, “Putting small businesses out of business will be the result of Senate Bill 824.”
The Senate Finance Committee is set to hear testimony on the bill on Feb. 21, 2025, where supporters and opponents will have the opportunity to voice their positions.
As the bill progresses, independent liquor store owners continue to urge lawmakers to reconsider its impact on local businesses and community spaces.
See Senate Bill 824 here.
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