Baltimore liquor violation fines could increase from $3,000 to $20,000

Lawmakers in Baltimore City want to increase the maximum fine that bars, restaurants and other establishments can face for liquor violations from $3,000 to $20,000. In order for the city to raise the fines, state law would need to be changed. Maryland State Sen. Antonio Hayes made the case for a bill that would do just that at a virtual hearing last Friday of Baltimore City’s Senate delegation, while Del. Stephanie Smith presented Monday to the city’s House delegation on behalf of Mayor Brandon M. Scott’s office. Baltimore’s delegation to the General Assembly is weighing the proposal and will vote on the bill Friday.