Liquor laws
Last September, this editorial board expressed optimism toward the possibility of alcohol being sold at university athletic events, as these sales would be an efficient way to accrue extra revenue and create a safer alternative to drinking too much during tailgates. Now, we’re now faced with another reform: alcohol laws in Prince George’s County.
On April 14, Gov. Larry Hogan signed a bill ending so-called blue laws in this county. Essentially, this change allows some liquor stores to sell liquor on Sundays — with the appropriate permit. Of about 160 liquor stores that are eligible for these permits, no more than 100 permits will be issued.
We’ve expressed our support for more flexible liquor regulations on the campus, and we continue to hold this view regarding county laws. There are obviously costs and risks associated with selling alcohol for an additional day each week, and these are very warranted.
The increased exposure to alcohol by students at this university could create student health and safety concerns, and the increased costs — a $750 application fee and an annual permit fee between $1,000 and $2,500, not to mention the $50,000 liquor stores will have to reinvest in their business after a year of obtaining the permit — might persuade some stores to stay away from participating in Sunday liquor sales.
That said, the benefits of additional alcohol sales seem to outweigh the costs. According to a legislative analysis, the new permits could generate more than $200,000 in revenue for the county in addition to an estimated $1 million in tax revenue for the state.
Given that both Prince George’s County and this state haven’t been faring well economically, this move could create additional revenue for local governments, improve local liquor stores’ business and provide state residents with easier access to alcohol on Sundays.
Besides viewing the issue from an economic standpoint, blue laws seem quite antiquated. Originally a response to the end of Prohibition in the 1930s, the laws are in much need of an update.
Though some might be concerned about students’ health in response to this change, we have to be realistic and realize many college students — some underage — could find liquor elsewhere regardless. If stores apply for these permits, they must have a stern commitment to ensuring all customers are of legal drinking age.
These proposed changes sat through two legislative sessions before officially arriving on Hogan’s desk, and we have national trends and financial benefits surrounding the expansion of liquor sales to thank for the proposal becoming a reality. We commend the governor, bill sponsor Del. Michael Vaughn (D-Prince George’s) and other supporters for making positive changes to this county’s licensing regulations.
