The St. Mary's County Alcohol Beverage Board meeting on February 1, 2025, focused on clarifying operational hours for alcohol licenses and addressing concerns regarding gambling regulations.

A significant discussion arose regarding the operating hours for establishments holding alcohol licenses. Board members noted confusion stemming from previous applications where licensees inadvertently restricted their hours of operation. The board agreed that licenses should generally allow for service from 6 AM to 2 AM the following day, unless specific restrictions are warranted. This change aims to provide flexibility for businesses to adjust their hours as needed without being penalized for their initial requests.

Additionally, the board addressed the legality of gambling activities within licensed establishments. Concerns were raised about the need for clear guidelines on what constitutes legal versus illegal gambling, particularly with the rise of slot and pull-tab machines. Board members emphasized that it is not their role to police gambling but rather to ensure that establishments comply with existing laws. They discussed the importance of having proper permits for any gambling activities and the necessity for transparency regarding the charities involved.

In conclusion, the board plans to implement a standardized approach to alcohol licensing hours and will seek further clarification on gambling regulations to ensure compliance and protect both businesses and patrons. The next steps include updating licensing procedures and potentially consulting legal experts to refine their understanding of gambling laws.