Updated Tobacco Compliance Bulletin: Underage Sales and TRMA Violations

The Alcohol, Tobacco, and Cannabis Commission (ATCC) has received inquiries from agencies and stakeholders across Maryland regarding the reporting requirements necessary to initiate administrative action against tobacco retailers who sell to individuals under the age of 21. In addition, the ATCC has been asked how it will evaluate and respond to violations of the Tobacco Retail Modernization Act (TRMA) of 2024.

To support and promote consistent enforcement across the state, the following resources offer clear guidance on these matters and outline the procedures for submitting referrals and pursuing administrative action.

Tobacco Compliance Bulletin

Please see the Tobacco Compliance Bulletin - PDF, which details the agency’s procedures for submitting violation referrals and initiating administrative hearings.

New Referral Letter

In addition, the ATCC has updated its Retailer Violation Letter - PDF. Local health departments should use this revised letter when submitting referrals for administrative hearings.

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

The ATCC’s Administrative Hearings - PDF and Tobacco Underage Administrative Hearings - PDF SOPs remain unchanged.

If you have any questions please call the ATCC at 443-300-6990, our main office number, or email us at [email protected].