Official websites use .maryland.gov

A .maryland.gov website belongs to an official government organization in Maryland.

Secure websites use HTTPS certificate

A lock icon () or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the official website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

en English
Search
Close this search box.

Legal and Legislative Division

The Legal and Legislative Division (LLD) provides legal counsel and support for ATCC’s regulatory, oversight, and enforcement activities. The LLD focuses on drafting regulations, reviewing laws, and ensuring all aspects of the alcohol and tobacco industries comply with Maryland laws and federal guidelines. The LLD also works with the Alcohol and Tobacco Commission to ensure enforcement efforts align with state law. Additionally, the division advocates for policies that promote public safety, economic growth, and responsible distribution.

Policies / Laws / Regulations

The Policies, Laws, and Regulations section ensures Maryland’s alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis industries follow a clear and transparent legal framework. It provides businesses, policymakers, and the public with access to laws, legislative updates, and policies. By offering this guidance, ATCC ensures that businesses understand their responsibilities and follow the state’s expectations. This approach supports compliance, safety, and fairness in the marketplace.
Here are some of our key responsibilities

Administrative Hearings

Learn more about the Administrative Hearings process: The Office of the Executive Director convenes hearings to address violations related to alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis regulations and to address disputes with licensing or property seizure decisions, ensuring businesses and individuals have a fair opportunity to address compliance issues and understand legal outcomes. Click here for more information.

Outreach

The ATCC actively engages with businesses, community groups, and policy makers to raise awareness of regulatory updates, industry best practices, and compliance resources. If you are interested in discussing topics related to policy, regulations, or education, please reach out to Thomas R. Akras, Director of the Legal and Legislation Division.

FOIA / MD PIA

If you are seeking access to public records under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) or the Maryland Public Information Act (PIA), please contact the ATCC's Legal and Legislative Division. We will guide you through the process of submitting a request and ensure timely access to the documents you need. Please contact the ATCC’s PIA representative, Jeffrey Hann.

Legislative Manual

Access the Legislative Manual, which outlines the key governing the ATCC’s work. View the manual here.

CONTACTS

Thomas R. Akras, Esq.

Director

Jeffrey M. Hann, Esq.

Assistant Director

Isai Hernandez

Policy Analyst

Michael F. Nguyen

Communications Officer

ATCC Connect Summer 2024

ATCC Commissioner Updates

ATCC Enforcement Activity, FY2024

Permit Now Required for Local Alcohol Delivery by a Third-party Contractor

New Requirements for Class 4 Limited Winery License

New Direct to Consumer Delivery Bill and Permit

Contact by Email

Tips and Complaints

Report Violations or File a Complaint

Help us uphold Maryland’s alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis regulations by providing information about violations or non-compliance. Whether you’re submitting a tip about a potential violation or filing a formal complaint, your input is essential to maintaining a safe and well-regulated marketplace.
Please choose one of the following options to proceed:

Submit a Tip

Have information related to violations or non-compliance? Submit a tip to help us maintain regulatory standards.
Please include any relevant informations, such as names of businesses or individuals who may be in violation.
Would you like to be contacted by an agent?

File a Complaint

File a formal complaint related to alcohol, tobacco, or cannabis sales or distribution practices in Maryland.
Please include any relevant informations, such as names of businesses or individuals who may be in violation.
Would you like an agent contact you?

Your Contact Information

Name
Name
First
Last