MACo seeks to protect local licensing flexibility and enhance citizens’ safety through its business affairs advocacy. The segments below provide a brief overview of MACo’s work in this area in the 2017 General Assembly.
Follow links for more coverage on Conduit Street and MACo’s Legislative Database.
Beer and Wine Tasting
MACo sucessfully supported passage of a bill to authorize a limited-scope license for beer and wine tastings at the Ocean City Convention Center, for certain events that promote Maryland-based products. This legislation only applies to events hosted by organizations representing local governments at the Ocean City Convention Center, and only for events promoting Maryland products for “tasting” purposes, such as the Taste of Maryland event at the MACo Summer Conference. Senate Bill 1102 was passed by both chambers and awaits the Governor’s signature. Bill Information | MACo Coverage
Trade Licensing & Qualifications
MACo successfully stopped legislation to remove all electrical licensing authority from local jurisdictions by 2020 and established a statewide licensing framework for master electricians. Counties and their local electrical boards are best situated to oversee and discipline electricians working within their jurisdictions. House Bill 1368 received an unfavorable report by the House Economic Matters Committee. Bill Information | MACo Coverage
MACo supported a bill intended to create more flexibility for counties hiring plumbing inspectors, and requiring certain experience for county inspectors. Unfortunately, Senate Bill 461/House Bill 40 was withdrawn by its sponsors. Bill Information
Rabies Vaccination Reporting
MACo supported passage of a bill to authorize designated local animal agencies to request rabies vaccination certificates or information for dogs, cats, and ferrets from licensed veterinarians. MACo worked with county animal control offices to conduct a survey on this topic during the interim and worked closely with advocacy groups on this legislation. Senate Bill 366/House Bill 432 passed the Senate but did not make it out of committee in the House of Delegates. Bill Information | MACo Coverage
Residential Lodging
MACo supported with amendments a bill to require shortterm rentals, such as Airbnb, and individuals who hosts on those platforms to be registered with the Comptroller and regulated. Unfortunately, Senate Bill 463 did not make it out of committee. Bill Information | MACo Coverage
