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AB-43 – Alcohol Awareness Program Issues

Training and Certification |

What instructors and program permit holders need to know about compliance issues and upcoming changes

Maryland has identified compliance issues with alcohol awareness training programs and is considering new regulations to address these concerns, and this guidance explains current expectations, enforcement actions, and how to provide input on proposed changes.

What you need to know

  • Compliance issues have been identified in alcohol awareness programs
  • Violations have resulted in fines and suspensions
  • New regulations are being considered
  • You can submit comments before rules are drafted

Who This Applies To

This guidance applies to:

  • Alcohol awareness instructors
  • Program permit holders

Identified Compliance Issues

The agency has identified problems such as:

  • Instructors operating without proper permits
  • Failure to provide required training hours
  • Other violations of program requirements

Current Enforcement

These issues are being addressed:

  • On a case-by-case basis

Enforcement actions have included:

  • Fines
  • Suspensions

Proposed Regulatory Changes

Maryland is considering:

  • New regulations governing alcohol awareness programs

The goal is to:

  • Address ongoing compliance issues
  • Clarify requirements for instructors and programs

Opportunity to Provide Input

You may submit:

  • Preliminary comments and suggestions

Deadline:

  • Within 30 days of the bulletin date

Comments will:

  • Help inform the draft regulation

What Happens Next

  • A proposed regulation will be developed
  • It will be published in the Maryland Register
  • A formal 30-day public comment period will follow

What This Means for Businesses

Program providers should:

  • Review current training practices
  • Ensure all instructors are properly permitted
  • Meet required training standards
  • Participate in the comment process if impacted

Important Notes

  • No new regulation is in effect yet
  • Enforcement of current requirements continues
  • Additional changes may be introduced after feedback

Need Help?

For questions about licensing, contact the ATCC: 410-260-7314 ext. 4 or [email protected]

Related files

AB-43 – Alcohol Awareness Program Issues