Overview
- House Economic Matters Committee took testimony Wednesday after a pro-reform rally at the State House.
- The Alcoholic Beverages Modernization Act would let grocers obtain beer-and-wine privileges by buying existing licenses or applying to local boards.
- Gov. Wes Moore supports lifting the ban to expand consumer choice and fair competition.
- Independent liquor-store owners and their association warn the change would erode small-business revenue, even though grocers could not sell spirits.
- Supporters cite a Maryland Retailers Alliance survey showing 80% backing, while donations from small stores to key committees and from large chains to the governor highlight the lobbying push.