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Committee holds resolution seeking state change to allow beer and wine sales in grocery stores
Summary
The committee held a resolution asking state lawmakers to allow grocery stores to obtain class A beer and wine licenses; supporters said it could attract supermarkets to underserved areas, while small grocers warned of market losses; the committee voted to hold the measure 3–0.
Prince George's County's Government Operations and Fiscal Policy Committee on Feb. 27 voted to hold CR-3 (2025), a resolution requesting County delegation support for a Maryland General Assembly amendment to allow the county’s Board of License Commissioners to issue class A beer and wine licenses to retail grocery establishments.
The resolution, presented by staff, said the change aims to address food insecurity and health disparities by making grocery shopping a “one-stop” experience and encouraging supermarkets to open in underserved areas. County staff said roughly 40% of county neighborhoods meet the technical definition of food deserts and that improved grocery economics could encourage supermarket investment.
Why it matters: Supporters argued adding beer and wine sales would improve grocery viability and make high-quality grocers more likely to open in parts of the county that lack them. Opponents warned that allowing grocery stores to sell beer and wine would damage small, independently owned liquor/corner stores that depend on alcohol sales for a large share of revenue.
Who spoke and what they said - Roger Vanegas (council staff) summarized CR-3 and the study that informed it, saying the aim is to “address food insecurity and health disparities and underserved communities while promoting local economic development.” - Jim Spiroppoulos, owner of Towne Centre Market in Riverdale Park, testified that beer and wine sales in grocery chains would “most likely put an end to my family's 37 year roller coaster ride,” and cited Colorado data showing independent liquor-store closures after a similar change. - Council Member Begay said the proposal could help attract high-end grocers to underserved districts; Council Member Oriada said she would move to hold the resolution to allow more stakeholder engagement on potential impacts.
Committee action Following staff presentations and public testimony the committee approved a motion to hold CR-3 until a later date; the roll call recorded Chair Watson — Aye; Council member Donoga — Aye; Council member Oriada — Aye (motion to hold carries 3–0).
Next steps: Committee members said they want additional stakeholder input and noted that state-level bills are required for the change; staff and the sponsor will coordinate outreach before the measure is reintroduced or referred to the delegation.
Speakers quoted in this article are taken from the CR-3 discussion and public comment recorded in the meeting transcript.
