AB-44 – Price Filing System Reinstated (Court Decision)

What retailers need to know about the reinstated ban on quantity discounts and price filing requirements

Maryland has reinstated enforcement of certain alcohol pricing rules following a court decision.

The ban on quantity discounts is now enforceable again, and additional pricing requirements may be reinstated.

This page explains what changed and how it affects retailers.

What you need to know

• The ban on quantity discounts is now enforceable
• Retailers must follow current pricing laws
• Additional price filing requirements may be reinstated
• Compliance is required effective October 13, 2005

Who This Applies To

This guidance applies to:

• Maryland licensed retailers
• Businesses purchasing wine or distilled spirits from wholesalers

What Changed

A previous court decision had temporarily prevented enforcement of:

• The ban on quantity discounts
• Certain price filing requirements

A later court ruling reversed that decision.

As a result:

• The ban on quantity discounts is now enforceable again.

Quantity Discount Rules

Retailers and wholesalers must follow the rule that:

• Quantity discounts on sales of wine and distilled spirits are not allowed

This restriction is now in effect and must be followed.

Price Filing Requirements

Maryland intends to return to:

• The 30-day post-and-hold system for price filing

Additional guidance may be provided as implementation moves forward.

Effective Date

• The reinstated rules are effective October 13, 2005

What This Means for Businesses

Retailers should:

• Review pricing practices
• Ensure no quantity discounts are applied
• Stay aware of updates to price filing requirements

Failure to comply may result in enforcement action.

Important Notes

• This bulletin reflects a change in enforcement due to a court ruling
• Pricing rules may continue to evolve as additional guidance is issued
• Businesses should monitor updates from ATCC

Need Help?

For questions about pricing rules, contact the ATCC: 410-260-7314 ext. 2 or [email protected]

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