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Updates & Resources

REOPENING STRATEGIES

Over the past few months, MALA has convened weekly phone meetings to discuss COVID-19 and its impact on Maryland businesses. These strategies - suggested through collaboration across jurisdictions - provide general guidance as the state reopens. 


They are by no means legally binding; rather, they represent words of advice. Contact MALA if you are interested in participating in these discussions.

Can't be one size fits all

Over the coming months, we'll be hearing a lot from the state and local leaders, and some the information and guidance we receive may be contradictory. Think through your strategies carefully, and know that collaboration across agencies will yield community-specific results that will fit into the broader picture. 

Consumption area approval

This is a new area of responsibility for liquor boards. Collaborate with local businesses to make this happen. For example, provide signage and other support as restaurants expand to open air seating. 

Ensure legal buy-in

This one is important! Consult with your Liquor Board attorney to insure that any strategies formulated pass the legal test. 

Expired IDs

Establishments should not accept an expired driver's license as proof of age. COVID-19 could change the scenario. Be sure to ask extra questions:

  • When did the license actually expire - during COVID-19 or significantly before the pandemic began?
  • Do you have a chain of command in place regarding ID reviews?
  • Is your process different because of current circumstances?


Insurance coverage for your licensees

Have your licensees check with their local insurance agencies to make sure they are covered, particularly if they're expanding to outdoor seating. 

One agency takes the lead

While strategies need to be created and implemented collaboratively, one agency needs to take the lead. Make sure that the Health Department takes  a key role in policy and programmatic implementation. Ensure open communication among your law enforcement agency, health department, and liquor board.

ID scanners & IDs

Many communities have integrated ID scanners to prevent underage alcohol purchases. Regulators say that there may even be an uptick of using fake IDs because young people feel that retailers and restaurants may be checking less due to current circumstances. When using scanners, a concern is touching IDs. One county affirmed that they place scanners on a stand which streamlines and eliminates the need for retailers to touch any form of identification. 


On another note, remember that point of sale (POS) scanners ONLY decode what is on an ID. You need a scanner that ACTUALLY decodes state information. 

Outside entertainment

This is an interesting challenge - given COVID-19 realities. The approval process varies from jurisdiction-to-jurisdiction. Some tell us that outdoor entertainment requests need to come before the Liquor Board, and others say that this is a zoning issue.Your call!

Food & music violations

Every jurisdiction operates differently; suggest that you team up with the local health department regarding how to handle infractions. One jurisdiction will be holding COVID Infraction Hearings where COVID-specific enforcement challenges such as over-capacity, social distancing, and employee mask wearing shall be addressed. Another is integrating the Safety Alliance model, focusing on education first and conducting enforcement checks during late-night hours.

Take care of your staff

Survey your staff to confirm what they need - masks and other PPE, for example. This is particularly relevant for inspectors. 

COVID Communications Corner

Back to Business - Updates and Best Practices

Back to Business - Updates and Best Practices

Back to Business - Updates and Best Practices

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Learn more

The Hogan Administration's COVID-19 Response

Back to Business - Updates and Best Practices

Back to Business - Updates and Best Practices

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Learn more

Comptroller of Maryland's COVID-19 Tax Relief

Back to Business - Updates and Best Practices

Comptroller of Maryland's COVID-19 Tax Relief

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Learn more

Restaurant Association of Maryland

Carryout, Delivery & Outdoor Seating During COVID-19

Comptroller of Maryland's COVID-19 Tax Relief

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Learn more

Carryout, Delivery & Outdoor Seating During COVID-19

Carryout, Delivery & Outdoor Seating During COVID-19

Carryout, Delivery & Outdoor Seating During COVID-19

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Learn more

How to Wear a Face Mask Correctly

Carryout, Delivery & Outdoor Seating During COVID-19

Carryout, Delivery & Outdoor Seating During COVID-19

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Learn more

Business Signage

Business Signage

Business Signage

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LOCAL RESOURCES

Anne Arundel County

Anne Arundel County

Anne Arundel County

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Baltimore County

Anne Arundel County

Anne Arundel County

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Charles County

Anne Arundel County

Frederick County

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Frederick County

Montgomery County

Frederick County

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Garrett County

Montgomery County

Montgomery County

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Montgomery County

Montgomery County

Montgomery County

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St. Mary's County

St. Mary's County

St. Mary's County

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Washington County

St. Mary's County

St. Mary's County

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NATIONAL RESOURCES


ORGANIZATIONS & AGENCIES


Center for Disease Control and Prevention: 

  • General information
  • Coronavirus (COVID-19) How to protect yourself | What to do if you are sick
  • Considerations for Restaurants and Bars


National Alcohol Beverage Control Association: COVID-19 Resources


National Liquor Law Enforcement Association: COVID-19 Member Advisory 


National Restaurant Association: Coronavirus Information and Resources


U.S. Alcohol Policy Alliance: Interactive Dialogue - Alcohol & COVID-19: A Dangerous Mix





ARTICLES & PUBLICATIONS


Center for Alcohol Policy.org:  "Crisis De-Regulations" Should They Stay or Should They Go?


POLITICO: CDC releases detailed guidelines for reopening


Restaurant Hospitality: Next round of states poised to open for dine-in... 



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