AB-70 – Emergency Authorization for Direct-to-Consumer Shipments

How manufacturers can apply for temporary approval to ship alcohol directly to consumers in Maryland

Under a Governor’s Executive Order, Maryland temporarily allowed alcohol manufacturers to ship products directly to consumers with approval.

Manufacturers must apply for emergency authorization and meet specific requirements to operate under this temporary policy.

This page explains how to apply and what rules apply if you are approved.

What you need to know

• Direct-to-consumer shipping was temporarily allowed with approval
• You must apply for emergency authorization before shipping
• Strict rules apply to sales, delivery, and recordkeeping
• Authorization can be revoked if requirements are not followed

Who This Applies To

This guidance applies to:

• State-licensed alcohol manufacturers in Maryland

What Changed

The Governor’s Executive Order temporarily allowed:

• Direct shipment of alcohol to consumers
• Use of common carriers for delivery

This was only permitted with approval from the Comptroller.

How to Apply

To request emergency authorization:

Submit a written request by email that includes:

• Business name, address, and Federal Tax ID
• Copy of your valid Maryland license
• Contact information
• Name and contact details of your delivery carrier
• List of products you intend to ship

Submit requests to: [email protected]

Requirements if Approved

If authorized, you must:

• Ship only your own manufactured products
• Use an approved common carrier
• Verify age:
  • At purchase (online or system verification)
  • At delivery (carrier verification)
• Ensure products are labeled with:
  • License information
  • Recipient name and address
  • “Contains Alcohol” notice requiring 21+ signature

Tax and Reporting Requirements

You must:

• Collect and pay all applicable taxes
• File:
  • Quarterly alcohol tax returns
  • Quarterly sales and use tax returns
• Report:
  • Product type and volume
  • Sales price
  • Customer name and address

Recordkeeping Requirements

You must:

• Maintain complete records for at least 3 years
• Provide records if requested
• Allow audits by the Comptroller

Limitations of This Authorization

This authorization:

• Is temporary
• May be revoked at any time
• Must not be used in a way that risks public health or safety

If requirements are not followed:

• Authorization may be rescinded immediately

Important Notes

• This authorization was issued under an Executive Order
• It does not permanently change Maryland law
• Businesses must follow all conditions to remain compliant

Need Help?

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

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