Reviving the Push for Wine and Beer Sales in Grocery Stores: A Fresh Start After Last Session’s Setbacks

Advocates have renewed efforts to allow the sale of beer and wine in Maryland grocery stores following the failure of similar bills last session. Currently, Maryland is one of only four states that restrict alcohol sales to liquor stores. Last December, Governor Wes Moore expressed his support for changing these regulations, aiming to work with the General Assembly during the upcoming session.

Despite the advocacy, the previous bills did not advance past committee stage. Recently, the Maryland Consumer Freedom Coalition underscored the broad support among residents for expanding these sales. A survey conducted earlier this year indicated that 59% of respondents strongly supported the idea, with an additional 22% partly supporting it.

Richard Locklair, president of the Maryland Retailers Alliance, highlighted the economic impact, noting that every time a Maryland family crosses the state line for shopping, the state loses not just alcohol sales but overall grocery revenue, sales tax, and job support for local communities.

However, the proposed changes have sparked concern among small business owners like Caitlin O’Connor of The Wine Source in Hampden, who fear that increased competition from grocery chains will threaten their survival. O’Connor described the detrimental effects as potentially catastrophic for their business, emphasizing that many local entities might not be able to remain open under the new sales model.

In response, advocates have suggested incorporating regulations such as maintaining distances between grocery stores and liquor shops and ensuring that no new liquor licenses will be issued for grocery stores.

Delegate Marlon Amprey, the bill’s sponsor, suggests that both types of stores can coexist effectively. Governor Moore reaffirms his commitment to advancing consumer choice, calling for Maryland to align with the majority of states that have successfully passed similar reforms.

The next legislative session begins on January 14, 2025, and advocates plan to mobilize local businesses for support, aiming to present a united front against the proposed changes.

Governor Moore supports changes to alcohol sales

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!