The 2024 Maryland Tobacco Modernization Act, which became effective on October 1, 2024, introduced critical changes that all tobacco retailers need to understand to remain compliant with Maryland state laws.
The Act prohibits retailers from displaying cigarettes, other tobacco products, or electronic smoking devices for sale unless these items are securely located behind a counter. Additionally, licensed retailers are now required to verify an individual’s date of birth using a valid government-issued photo ID before selling any tobacco products. The Act also increases the application fee for a county license to sell cigarettes or tobacco products at retail.
The Alcohol, Tobacco, and Cannabis Commission (ATCC), in partnership with local health departments, is actively enforcing these new regulations. To help you navigate these changes, we’ve developed a detailed factsheet that outlines all the new requirements and provides practical guidance to keep your business compliant.
We strongly encourage you to download and review the attached factsheet to ensure that your operations align with the updated law. This resource covers everything you need to know, from compliance steps to enforcement expectations, and will help safeguard your business from potential penalties.
If you have any questions or need additional support, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at atcc.licensing@maryland.gov or call us at 443-300-6990. Our team is here to help.
Thank you for your attention and for your commitment to maintaining a safe and lawful marketplace in Maryland.
Sincerely,
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