Liquor board to study raffle and brewery off‑site rules after spike in fundraising events

Board staff told commissioners July 22 they will examine how other Maryland jurisdictions regulate raffles and 'baskets of cheer' fundraisers and review the annotated code for possible local language to permit or regulate such raffles. The request followed board members’ questions about when a nonprofit or a brewery operating under a state off‑site permit must obtain local approvals.

Staff explained that the Maryland Alcohol and Tobacco Commission (ATCC) issues off‑site permits that allow breweries, distilleries and wineries to sample and sell products at events; these permit holders notify counties and the state circulates a weekly list of approved off‑site events. Staff said the county will monitor those lists and, if needed, contact the ATCC or local event organizers when a brewery appears at a local event without prior local notification.

Members discussed whether the county should pursue a narrow raffle or permit regime to address the proliferation of alcohol‑related fundraising raffles and whether such a change should be proposed during the next legislative session. Staff agreed to research other jurisdictions' approaches and present options to the board in August or before the local delegation meeting this fall.