Advocates are reigniting efforts to allow beer and wine sales in Maryland grocery stores following a previous unsuccessful attempt in Annapolis. Currently, Maryland is one of only four states where alcohol sales are confined to liquor stores. Last year, Governor Wes Moore supported the initiative, expressing hope for legislative progress.

In December, the governor remarked on his anticipation to work with the General Assembly to send a bill for beer and wine sales to his desk. However, proposed bills did not advance beyond committee discussions.

The Maryland Consumer Freedom Coalition is leading the renewed drive, citing heavy support from the public. A recent survey of Maryland voters revealed that 59% strongly supported and 22% partly supported the initiative. Advocates argue grocery stores, facing slim profit margins, lose substantial business as customers shop out of state for beer and wine.

Caitlin O’Connor, a worker-owner at The Wine Source in Hampden, expressed concerns that allowing grocery stores to sell alcohol could devastate local businesses. She noted that many smaller establishments rely on their unique offerings to survive, and increased competition could lead to significant losses.

Advocates for the bill plan to include distance regulations to mitigate concerns from small business owners. They emphasize that they won’t create new liquor licenses but will consider current examples of grocery stores allowed to sell alcohol.

Governor Moore’s office reiterated the administration’s commitment to updating Maryland’s alcohol laws, reflecting the interests of most residents from both political backgrounds. O’Connor hopes that local businesses can unite again, as they did last year, to contest the proposals effectively.

The next legislative session begins on January 14th.