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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 policies and legal frameworks 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

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