The St. Mary's County Alcohol Beverage Board discussed a proposed local legislative change on Sept. 14, 2017 to allow an exception for per-diem Class C licenses so officers of nonprofit organizations could hold a per-diem license even if they already hold another retail liquor license.

Board Administrator Tammy Hildebrand said volunteers currently face a barrier because state or county rules limit an individual to a single liquor license; that restriction can make it difficult for volunteer-run nonprofits, such as carnival or festival organizers, to secure a temporary license when officers also hold retail licenses. Hildebrand asked the board to consider a county-specific exception that would apply only to per-diem class C licenses issued to nonprofits for fundraising events.

Members discussed potential for abuse and unintended consequences and asked staff to refine language and consult with the St. Mary's County License Beverage Association. David Dent of the beverage association said the group generally supported the concept but recommended the board ensure legislative language is “airtight” to prevent misinterpretation that would permit secondary retail licenses beyond the narrow per-diem exception.

Board members did not take a vote; they directed staff to continue developing draft language, gather additional stakeholder input, and return with proposals for the next legislative cycle.