Home Our Agency Office of the Comptroller Peter Franchot Peter Franchot Welcome and thank you for visiting the Comptroller of Maryland website. It is a privilege to serve as Maryland's 33rd Comptroller - the state's chief fiscal officer. Not only do I collect state taxes and issue tax refunds, but I also track how and where Maryland taxpayers' hard-earned money goes to ensure your dollars are spent wisely - improving schools, strengthening communities, protecting the environment, supporting public safety and investing in the state's infrastructure needs. As a steadfast champion of small, family-owned and local businesses that make up 70 percent of our state's economy, I also advocate for legislative reforms and fiscal policies that strengthen our state's business climate. As chief executive officer of a 1,100-person state agency, I am focused on delivering respectful, responsive and results-oriented taxpayer service, and I am proud that our office is considered one of the most effective and efficient in the nation. The Maryland Constitution also charges our office with regulating alcohol, tobacco and motor fuel. We reunite taxpayers with their lost funds through our unclaimed property initiative; protect unsuspecting taxpayers from tax and identity thieves with a state-of-the-art fraud detection system; honor Marylanders who exemplify public service through the annual William Donald Schaefer Helping People Awards program; and ensure that thousands of dedicated state employees are paid on time. And as Comptroller, I serve on a number of boards and commissions, including the Board of Public Works. Along with the Governor and State Treasurer, we review and approve billions of dollars in state contracts every other week - a truly unique system in this country that helps safeguard our state's outstanding financial reputation. As your Comptroller, I will always fight for what is fair and act in the best interests of Maryland taxpayers. It is an honor to serve you. Sincerely, Peter V.R. Franchot Biography of Peter Franchot Office of Comptroller Office of Communications Comptroller Initiatives Comptroller Franchot took office in 2007 declaring he would expand the purview of the agency. He has done so through a number of initiatives. As a former legislator with more than 20 years of experience, he will continue to be a strong advocate for education, health care, small businesses, transportation and environmental protection initiatives as well as being the state's fiscal watchdog. Shop Maryland Energy Maryland's Tax Free Weekend for Certain Energy Star Products Consumers will get a break from the state's 6 percent sales tax on qualifying Energy Star products from February 19-21, 2022. During Shop Maryland Energy weekend, the following Energy Star products are tax free: Air conditioners Washers and dryers Furnaces Heat pumps Boilers Solar water heaters (tax-exempt at all times now) Standard size refrigerators Dehumidifiers Programmable thermostats Compact fluorescent light bulbs Shop Maryland Energy weekend will occur in perpetuity (or until legislative amendment) from the Saturday immediately preceding the third Monday in February until the third Monday of February. Additionally, a tax free week on clothing and footwear priced $100 or less will occur every year during the second week of August. From 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, February 19, through midnight on Monday February 21, 2022, qualifying ENERGY STAR products will be exempt from Maryland's 6 percent sales tax. For additional information, please see our Frequently Asked Questions. 2022 Shop Maryland Energy - 11x17 Poster 2022 Rack Card Front and Back 2022 Rack Card Front - JPG 2022 Rack Card Back - JPG 2022 Shop Maryland Energy - Social Media JPG 2022 Shop Maryland Energy - Social Media JPG 2 2022 Shop Maryland Energy - Social Media - Save 6% Energy JPG More information on Shop Maryland Energy ENERGY STAR Maryland Energy Administration Energy.gov Maryland Department of the Environment Maryland Department of Natural Resources Chesapeake Bay Foundation Chesapeake Bay Trust BGE Smart Energy Saver Programs PEPCO Energy Saver Programs Delmarva Power Energy Saver Programs Washington Gas Maryland Energy Efficiency Programs SMECO Energy Saver Programs Potomac Edison Energy Saver Programs Shop Maryland and Save For the Holidays Every year the Comptroller of Maryland engages in his Shop Maryland and Save for the Holidays campaign encouraging residents to buy from local businesses. Small businesses are the lifeblood of our economy. This year as businesses continue to struggle from the ravages of the pandemic they need your patronage to survive. There are very safe ways to purchase from your favorite local shops whether online or in person, home delivery, curbside pickup, sidewalk sales. The Free State has you covered, and it is never too early to get started. This year we are happy to not only renew our partnership with the Maryland Retailers Association, we are thrilled to announce that once again the Maryland/DC Credit Union Association and many of their credit union members are joining us. They will be offering a variety of rewards programs for shopping Maryland this holiday season. Select a credit union below for more details. Together we strive to keep the lights on by shopping safe, shopping local, shopping Maryland. Press events: 10/21 1:30 PM SECU 6011 Greenbelt Road, Berwyn Heights, MD 20740 Press Release: Comptroller Franchot Urges Residents to Shop Maryland and Save Check out the list of participating Credit Unions, and see how they are ready to help you shop local: *Please check with participating credit unions for the run dates of the listed promotions. Triple Points Offer: Freedom FCU Double Points Offer: DOLFCU Educational Systems Federal Credit Union Five Star of MD Federal Credit Union SECU Lower Credit Card Rate (APR) / Lower Holiday Loan Rate: Educational Systems Federal Credit Union Market USA Federal Credit Union GPO FCU Lower Auto Loan Rate (APR) MECU Credit Union Win Gift Cards or Prizes Destinations Credit Union Baltimore County EFCU Nymeo FCU SHOP Maryland for the Holidays Partners with Existing Rewards and Discount Programs: APGFCU First Financial FCU JHFCU Tower Federal Credit Union Downloadable Graphics for Social Media and Print: Shop Maryland 2021 Poster JPG - Shop Maryland Challenge Shop Maryland 2021 Poster 8.5x11 PDF Shop Maryland 2021 Poster with Crop Mark 8.5x11 PDF Shop Maryland 2021 Poster with White Border 8.5x11 PDF Shop Maryland 2021 Poster 11x17 PDF Shop Maryland 2021 Poster with Crop Mark 11x17 PDF Shop Maryland 2021 Poster with White Border 11x17 PDF Shop Maryland 2021 4x9 Rack Card Shop Maryland 2021 Rack Card with Crop Mark Shop Maryland 2021 Rack Card Front and Back JPG Shop Maryland 2021 Rack Card Front and Back 2 JPG Workgroup on Pandemic Spending Workgroup on Pandemic Spending The Comptroller's Workgroup on Pandemic Spending, an agency-led panel that will conduct a comprehensive review of state and federal COVID-related spending has been formed. Resulting from language inserted into the Fiscal Year 2022 budget by the Maryland General Assembly following Comptroller Franchot’s request for an independent review of pandemic-related spending, the workgroup will deliver a full inspection of how pandemic funds have been expended; determine if the funds went to intended recipients and populations most in need; examine disparities in distribution; and identify possible predatory fraud and pandemic profiteering. The workgroup, chaired by the Comptroller, is composed of key agency leadership – the Deputy Comptroller, the directors of the Comptroller’s General Accounting and Compliance divisions, and the directors of the Bureau of Revenue Estimates and the Office of Risk Management. William Donald Schaefer Helping People Award The William Donald Schaefer Helping People Award is presented by the Comptroller of Maryland to the individuals and organizations in each of the 23 counties and Baltimore City who best exemplify William Donald Schaefer's lifelong commitment to helping people. Winners are selected based on their demonstration of: Improving the community Swiftly solving a citizen problem through effective government intervention Directly aiding the most vulnerable in society or Creating a public/private partnership to improve the lives of Marylanders Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all William Donald Schaefer Helping People Awards have been presented virtually to protect the health and safety of the recipients, their families, and staff members. Individual press releases will be sent announcing each of the honorees, along with a link to view the virtual ceremony. Comptroller Franchot and his team would like to thank all the nominees for their hard work and commitment to helping the under-served in their communities. Congratulations to all of the William Donald Schaefer Helping People Award recipients. William Donald Schaefer, Courtesy of the Maryland State Archives 2021 Winners by Region Baltimore County: Joseph Benn Click on the picture for larger view Montgomery County: Dekeda Brown Click on the picture for larger view 2020 Winners by Region Northern Maryland: Press Release Baltimore City - Reading Partner Baltimore Baltimore County - George E. White Carroll County - Jameson Greenwood, Replay Hampstead Cecil County - Raymond Lynn Harford County - LASOS, INC. Central Maryland: Press Release Anne Arundel County - Monica Alvarado Howard County - Ronald Peters Montgomery County - Dr. Marissa Watts Prince George's County - Alexandria Briggs-Blake Southern Maryland: Press Release Calvert County: Heather Maerten Charles County: Joe Gressis St. Mary’s County: Foundation 4 Heroes Eastern Shore: Press Release Caroline County: Choptank Community Health Dorchester County: Friends of Blackwater National Wildlife Kent County: Larry Wilson Queen Anne's County: Sharon Robinson Somerset County: Shawna Kearsley Talbot County: Trish Payne Wicomico County: Amber Green/ Fenix Youth Project Worcester County: Kim Klump Western Maryland: Press Release Allegany County: Mindy Wilkinson Frederick County: Hayden’s Heroes Garrett County: HART for Animals Washington County: Rick Wilson, founder Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry 2019 Winners by Region Allegany County: Dorian Birkholz, Western Maryland MOM Dental Clinic, Virtual Presentation Anne Arundel County: Burger & Bands For Suicide Prevention, Founders Ann & Ethan Brennan, Virtual Presentation Baltimore City: Munir Bahar, COR Health Institute, Virtual Presentation Baltimore County: Tyler Stallings, CEO Kid Time Enterprises, Virtual Presentation Calvert County: Heart F.E.L.T., Founder Little Jack Woodford, Virtual Presentation Carroll County: Pass Love Around, Founder Julia LeHew, Virtual Presentation Caroline County: Judge Owen Wise, Virtual Presentation Cecil County: Cecil Vets Honor Bus, Founder Susie Webster Campbell, Virtual Presentation Charles County: Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing, Founder Capt. Ed Nicholson U.S. Navy (ret.), Virtual Presentation Dorchester County: MidShore Meals Til Monday, Leslie Bishop Founder, Virtual Presentation Frederick County: Debbie Williams Founder, Patty Pollatos Fund, Virtual Presentation Garrett County: Phyllis Trickett, Virtual Presentation Howard County: Food on the 15th, Founder Julie Rosenthal, Virtual Presentation Montgomery County: Birthday Cakes 4 Free, Robert Wachen Co-Founder Virtual Presentation Prince George's County: The Training Source, Inc., Founder E. Kim Rhim Virtual Presentation Queen Anne's County: Amy's Army Holly Rhodes Co-Founder Virtual Presentation Somerset County: Garland Hayward Youth Center, Founder, Garland Hayward, Virtual Presentation St. Mary's County: Hits 4 Heroes, Founders Harry & Debbie Pool, Virtual Presentation Talbot County: Talbot Paramedic Foundation, Co-Founder Wayne Dyott, Virtual Presentation Washington County: Brookes House Kevin and Dana Simmers, Founders, Virtual Presentation Wicomico County: Operation We Care, Jeff and Diana Merritt, Founders, Virtual Presentation Worcester County: Adopt Your Beach, Founder Effie Cox, Virtual Presentation For a list of last year's William Donald Schaefer Helping People Award Recipients please click here. Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week The second Sunday of August to the following Saturday is designated as Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week each year. That means qualifying apparel and footwear $100 or less, per item, are exempt from the state sales tax. The first $40 of a backpack or bookbag purchase is also tax-free. Accessory items, except for backpacks, are not included. The Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week for 2022 is Sunday, August 14 – Saturday, August 20. Additionally, there is a tax-free three-day weekend every February during which the state sales tax will not apply to the sale of any Energy Star Products listed. Please click on the Shop Maryland Energy Box on this page for more details. Shop Maryland Resources Exempt vs. Taxable Purchase Tax-Free-Week FAQ Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week Fact Sheet Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week Poster 11x17 PDF Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week Poster 11x17 JPG Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week Poster with Crop Mfarks 11x17 PDF Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week poster 24x36 PDF Printable 4 x 9 Rack Card - Front - 2021 JPG Printable 4 x 9 Rack Card - Back - 2021 JPG Printable 4 x 9 Rack Card Front and Back 2021 PDF Social Media 2021 Facebook Cover JPG Social Media Graphic 1085 x 1134 pixels JPG Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week Graphic Social Media 1 JPG Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week Graphic Social Media 2 JPG Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week Graphic Social Media 3 JPG Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week Graphic Social Media 4 JPG Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week Graphic Social Media 5 JPG For more information: Call (800) MD-TAXES or (410) 260-7980 from Central Maryland Legislative Initiatives Working for Taxpayer Fairness and Convenience Wayfair On June 21, 2018, the United State Supreme Court ruled in South Dakota v. Wayfair that sellers can be required to collect sales taxes in states where the sellers do not have physical presence, overruling the Court's prior decision in Quill v. North Dakota. Now, out-of-state vendors must maintain records to determine whether they will be required to remit Maryland sales tax on retail sales for delivery into Maryland. Online sales transactions are subject to the State's 6 percent sales and use tax if the sale is made by a retailer who, either within the previous or current calendar year, made at least 200 sales transactions within the state, or the retailer earned at least $100,000 in gross revenue on sales in Maryland. Compass The COMPASS tax processing system is in the process of replacing the agency's State of Maryland Tax (SMART) system, Computer Assisted Collection System and other antiquated tax processing systems that operate on outdated, often-unsupported technology platforms. Highlights of the new system include improved fraud detection and prevention programs, increased ability for taxpayers to manage their accounts via online self-service applications, maximized audit, collection, reporting and estimating functionality, and overall increased system stability. Compass is to be implemented on a rolling basis over the next several years. Tax Payer Protection Act In 2017 the Tax Payer Protection Act (TPA) was signed into law giving the Comptroller more tools to combat increased fraudulent and predatory activity. The TPA placed greater legal responsibility on tax preparers to properly file returns and added a fraudulent return preparer financial penalty. It also extended police powers to the Comptroller's Field Enforcement Division (FED) to properly investigate and prepare cases of tax fraud for prosecution. Brewery Modernization Act and Beer Franchise Law Reform The Comptroller was instrumental in updating Maryland's antiquated beer laws which culminated in the Brewery Modernization Act and Beer Franchise Law Reform in 2019. Among the many changes, breweries are now able to sell 5,000 barrels of its own beer each year for on-premises consumption, instead of up to 2,000 or 3,000 barrels under specified circumstances and a brewery that obtains a Class 7 limited beer wholesaler's license is authorized to sell up to 5,000 barrels of its own beer annually, instead of 3,000 barrels. Additionally, brewers now only need to provide 45 days' notice to terminate a contract with their wholesaler and are not required to show any cause. Financial Literacy Comptroller Franchot is a strong proponent of financial literacy education. He spearheaded a grassroots petition campaign to gather over 10,000 signatures to present to the Maryland General Assembly session to persuade them to implement a state-wide high school graduation requirement in personal finance. In addition, he has worked with local jurisdictions and private sector partners to help create opportunities and programs that will help prepare our students for life after school. Comptroller Franchot's efforts have seen several jurisdictions adopt a financial literacy graduation requirement, new programs and courses introduced in every school district across Maryland, and the creation of a finance park that allows students to test their knowledge in real world situations. For more information on the Comptroller's initiative to promote financial literacy, contact Emily Gontrum at egontrum@marylandtaxes.gov or call her at 410-260-7561. April is recognized as financial literacy month. Children as young as three can grasp basic fiscal concepts and by seven years old they have developed financial habits that will carry through their entire lives. It is never too early to start teaching good fiscal behavior to set up a lifetime of success for your children. Teach your children the value of a dollar. It is also never to late to learn about financial literacy and begin building a stable economic future for you and your family. Below are more helpful links on financial education and how to get help to make positive changes for your fiscal future: Maryland Coalition for Financial Literacy Maryland Council on Economic Education U.S. Financial Literacy and Education Commission Junior Achievement of Central Maryland Junior Achievement of the Eastern Shore Junior Achievement of Greater Washington Cash Campaign of Maryland U.S. News & World Report's 2021 Credit Card Guide Past Initiatives Comptroller Franchot created the Better With Less Award in 2011 to recognize the countless Maryland businesses innovatively operating at lower costs. The award was given to one business or organization in each of Maryland's 23 counties and Baltimore City and recognized organizations that achieved economic success while using less resources, used an innovative means to efficiently operate, identified a niche market in the current economic climate or provided new economic opportunities for local communities. More than 100 nominations were received. Bright Lights Award Comptroller Franchot announced the Bright Lights Award in December 2016 to pay tribute to business and nonprofit leaders and organizations that foster innovation in their fields. The Bright Lights Award for Innovation and Entrepreneurship recognized and celebrated innovation in the private and nonprofit sectors that strengthened Maryland's economy, generated jobs and tax revenue and developed new ideas that more effectively delivered services and products within the marketplace. One winner was selected from each of Maryland's 23 counties and Baltimore City, and businesses or nonprofits of any size were eligible for the award. Cool Classrooms The Comptroller established the Cool Classrooms initiative in 2012 to galvanize public support for installing air conditioning in all Baltimore County Public Schools. Historically, school systems around the state have faced the same issue and have been able to solve it with great success by installing portable air conditioning units, giving school systems time to install central air while keeping students and teachers comfortable. End Montgomery County Alcohol Monopoly Comptroller Franchot held a press conference on December 22, 2015 to announce the findings of a state Bureau of Revenue Estimates study on the economic impact of introducing private sector competition on alcohol sales and distribution in Montgomery County. Golden Apple Award The Comptroller created the Golden Apple Award in 2012 to recognize outstanding volunteers, organizations and individuals within the Maryland public school system. Winners were selected on their demonstration of superior volunteer work in Maryland public schools. Countless numbers of men, women and organizations donate their time and resources to volunteer at public schools throughout the state, all without pay and sometimes without any recognition. This award provided the accolades these volunteers truly deserve. Maryland Masters Award The Maryland Masters Award recognized public-school students who displayed extraordinary artistic skills, talents and a vision for Maryland's future. During the 2013-2014 school year, 55 students from 19 jurisdictions throughout the state took part in the program. The Comptroller selected students from each of Maryland's 23 counties and Baltimore City in grades K-12 to have a piece of original artwork on exhibit in the Comptroller's Office in Annapolis. School After Labor Day In August 2013, Comptroller Franchot released an economic development impact report on a post-Labor Day start for public schools. Completed by the Bureau of Revenue Estimates, the report found that a delayed school start in Maryland would result in an additional $74.3 million in direct economic activity, including $3.7 million in new wages and a separate $7.7 million in state and local revenue. A citizen-led grassroots initiative to start public schools after Labor Day kicked off in August 2014 to give families more time together, small businesses an economic boost and teachers a much-needed break. More than 13,240 Marylanders signed the "Let Summer Be Summer" petition, far exceeding the 10,000-signature goal. It was presented to members of the Maryland General Assembly at the beginning of the 2015 legislative session. The "Let Summer Be Summer" campaign resulted from a governor's task force which recommended in May 2014 that Maryland public schools delay opening until after Labor Day, while continuing to end the school year in early to mid-June. The state task force, which met for nearly a year to consider the issue, voted 11 to 4 in favor of a later start date statewide. Governor Hogan signed an executive order on August 31, 2016 requiring all Maryland public schools to begin classes after Labor Day. The executive order requires Maryland public schools to start classes after Labor Day and to end the school year by June 15. The new policy began with the start of the 2017-2018 school year. Silver Hammer Award Comptroller Franchot established the Silver Hammer Award in 2017 for schools that have demonstrated a commitment to fiscal responsibility through superior school maintenance. The Comptroller has seen many examples through his visits to public schools across the state where effective maintenance - including simple and affordable investments like a fresh coat of paint, new carpeting or a power washing - have made a world of difference. In addition to providing communities with a renewed sense of pride in their schools, research has confirmed the obvious and positive impact that clean, attractive and comfortable facilities have on student performance. R. Clayton Mitchell Award for Distinguished Public Service The R. Clayton Mitchell Jr. Award for Distinguished Public Service recognized past or current elected officials at all levels of government who exemplified Mitchell's spirit of public service, demonstrating strong leadership, humility and compassion for their communities. The former Speaker's son Clayton A. Mitchell Sr. partnered in the presentations with the Comptroller, offering personal insight into his father's tenure as a civil servant. The virtual ceremony can be viewed here. List of Winners: Allegany County: Casper Taylor Anne Arundel County: Mary Ann Love Baltimore City: Kurt Schmoke Baltimore County: Paula Hollinger Calvert County: Hagner Mister Caroline County: Larry C. Porter Carrol County: Julia Walsh Gouge Cecil County: Ronald Guns Charles County: William Eckman Dorchester County: Adelaide Eckardt Frederick County: Galen Clagett Garrett County: Peggy Jamison Harford County: Eileen Rehrmann Howard County: C. Vernon Gray Kent County: Wayne Gilchrest Montgomery County: Ida Ruben Prince Georges County: Gloria Lawlah Queen Anne's County: Wheeler Baker Somerset County: Daniel Long St. Mary's County: John Wood Jr. Talbot County: William S. Horne Washington County: Charles "Skip" Kauffman Wicomico County: Norman Conway Worcester County: William "Gee" Williams III Comptroller's Cornerstone Award for Local Business Excellence Comptroller Peter Franchot has finished accepting nominations for a new award that defines Maryland's local business community and the winners have been chosen. The Cornerstone Award exemplifies the following attributes: This award recognizes small and family-owned businesses that celebrate the guiding values of independence, innovation and investment that define Maryland's local business community. The Cornerstone Award further celebrates businesses in the retail, agriculture, manufacturing, industrial and entertainment sectors -- that are part of the fabric of their community. The recipients have adapted to economic challenges, overcome the changing marketplace and evolved to meet customer demands, while showing a commitment to the community through sponsorships, community service, charitable giving and civic involvement/leadership. One business has been selected from each of Maryland's 23 counties and Baltimore City. Businesses of any sector and any size are eligible for the award. Award presentations began June 1, 2019 and will continue through December. 2019 Cornerstone Award Recipients for Talbot County Teddy Bear Fresh List of Cornerstone Award Winners by County: Allegany Lennox East Anne Arundel Homestead Gardens Baltimore City Eddie's of Roland Park Baltimore County Bengie's Drive-In Calvert Patriot Construction Caroline Preston Ford Carroll Simmons Homemade Ice Cream Cecil Purnell Body Shop Charles SMECO Dorchester Emily's Produce Frederick Frederick Shell Carwash Garrett High Mountain Sports Harford Music Land Howard Clark's Elioak Farm Kent The Bookplate Montgomery Tastee Diner Prince George's Franklin's Brewery, Restaurant and General Store Queen Anne's Fisherman's Inn Somerset MeTompkin Oyster Company St. Mary's Towne Florist Talbot Teddy Bear Fresh Washington Krumpe's Do-Nuts Wicomico Jolly Roger Amusement Park E-Facts Task Force Citing a growing number of reports about serious illnesses, lung disease and deaths that are attributable to vaping, Comptroller Peter Franchot announced the creation of a task force to examine the public health and safety implications of electronic smoking devices (ESD). Members will represent local and state government, public health institutions, public health and safety experts, Maryland businesses, industry representatives, and the education community. This new task force - titled "e-facts" - will convene later this fall and will continue into early 2020. The task force directives will be: To achieve a better understanding of the nature and characteristics of ESDs, including the distinctions between various products within the marketplace; To gain a comprehensive picture of the public health and safety of ESDs and commercial effects of product sales in Maryland; and, To recommend new and stronger laws to ensure that consumers - particularly young people - are protected. Resources FINAL E-Facts Report Task Force Membership List Task Force Meeting Schedule Suggestions for e-facts Task Force Recommendations Agendas 01.27.2020 01.09.2020 12.03.2019 Presentations January 27, 2020 County Departments of Health - Tobacco Enforcement Handley - Legislative Update Hucker - The Vaping Epidemic January 9, 2020 JH presentation re FDA Action Dodson- MMCC Vape Testing Jaspers E-Facts Ward eFACTS Lam Vaping and Public Health Mitchell MDH Vaping Task Force December 3, 2019 Galiatsatos Hoke Kennedy Milby Rossman Graphics E-Cigarette Use at High Schools E-Vapor Sales Regional Comparison E-Facts Logo About the Reform on Tap Act of 2018 About the Reform on Tap Act of 2018 Citing the significant economic, fiscal and community contributions of Maryland's craft brewers and the industry's immense potential, Comptroller Peter Franchot has submitted legislation for consideration during the 2018 Maryland General Assembly Session that would fundamentally reform the antiquated laws and burdensome regulations that govern the state's craft breweries. The Reform on Tap Act of 2018 proposes the following: Removes all limits on beer production, taproom sales and take-home sales; Repeals the "buy-back" provision that requires brewers to purchase their beer from distributors at a marked-up cost if they exceed the 2,000-barrel limit on taproom sales. Lifts unnecessary restrictions for take-home sales; Guarantees the issuance of Class B or D beer licenses to microbreweries upon request; Lets local jurisdictions set guidelines for taproom operating hours; Allows smaller brewers to self-distribute; Eliminates franchise law requirements; and Removes restrictions on contract brewing that inhibits start-up businesses. The legislation reflects the findings of the Comptroller's Reform on Tap Task Force, which held eight meetings during this summer and fall to get a better grasp of the state's current laws and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for craft brewers. The 40-member task force represented every region in the state and industry stakeholders including brewers, distributors, retailers, consumers and lawmakers from both parties. An economic impact study conducted by the Bureau of Revenue Estimates found that in Maryland, the craft beer industry had an overall economic impact of $802.7 million and supported or created 6,541 jobs in 2016. The industry contributed nearly $110 million in local, state and federal revenues, which directly supports investments in education, public safety, transportation and the environment. Still, the state is a net importer of craft beer, meaning it consumes more (275,000 barrels) than it produces (247,000 barrels). Furthermore, the National Brewers Association ranked Maryland 47th in economic impact, 36th in number of breweries and 25th in gallons produced per adult aged 21 years and over ? all indications that the state's craft beer industry has plenty of room to grow if the arbitrary restrictions currently in place are lifted. More information about the Comptroller's legislation can be found in the documents below. Summary of Legislation Reform on Tap Act of 2018 Power Point Presentation Reform on Tap Task Force Archival Materials In response to the passage of House Bill 1283 during the 2017 Legislative Session and with the goal of modernizing Maryland's beer laws and promoting economic growth across the State, Comptroller Peter Franchot established "Reform On Tap" Task Force in April 2017. The task force, chaired by Comptroller Franchot, was composed of 40 members representing key stakeholder groups within the beer industry, and conducted a comprehensive review of the State's antiquated laws that govern the manufacturing, distribution, and sale of Maryland craft beer. The Task Force held 8 public meetings and 2 town hall meetings across the state. Video proceedings of Task Force meetings can be found in the Task Force's official Facebook page. Meeting Documents The following are documents and materials that were distributed during task force meetings. May 24, 2017 Agenda PowerPoint Presentation by Jeffrey Kelly, Director of the Comptroller's Field Enforcement Division. Topic: Maryland's Beer Laws: Overview and Historical Perspective Handout materials from Pete Johnson, manager of state and regulatory affairs, National Brewers Association. Topic: Maryland's Craft Beer Environment: A National Perspective PowerPoint Presentation by Kevin Atticks, Executive Director of Brewers Association of Maryland; Allison Burr-Livingstone, Vice President of Public Affairs, Visit Baltimore; and Mayor Jake Day of Salisbury, MD. Topic: Why It Matters: The Economic Impact of Maryland's Craft Beer Industry June 7, 2017 Agenda Comparative Charts of Neighboring States Manufacturing Laws: Production Limit Laws Taproom Sales Laws June 22, 2017 Agenda Presentation by Jeffrey Kelly, Director of Field Enforcement, Office of the Comptroller Chart 1: Self Distribution Chart 2: Franchise Laws Chart 3: Taproom Buyback Presentation by Lester Jones, Chief Economist for the National Beer Wholesalers Association July 20, 2017 Agenda Discussion Questions August 15, 2017 Agenda Discussion Questions Comparative Charts for Distribution Laws August 7-11, 2017 Consumer Survey September 6, 2017 Agenda Discussion Questions Presentation by John Bodnovich, Executive Director, American Beverage Licensees October 25, 2017 Agenda BRE Study of Economic Impact of Maryland's Craft Beer Industry Comparative Charts: Craft Beer Economic Impact in Maryland and Neighboring States The Economic and Fiscal Impact of Maryland's Craft Beer Industry Presentation by Andrew Schaufele Presentation by Kevin Atticks Special Report: The New York Experience and Lessons Learned Presentation by John Porcari Best Regional Practices Presentation by Ann Hillyer Presentation by Greg Parnas November 8, 2017 Report of Findings Prepared by the Comptroller of Maryland