reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 17 - Miscellaneous State Business Licenses › Subtitle 17A - Chain Stores › Section 17-17A-02 - Subtitle Inapplicable to Certain Retail Service Station Dealer

This subtitle does not apply to a retail service station dealer, as defined in § 10–101 of this article, of which the principal business is the sale or distribution of motor fuel.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 17 - Miscellaneous State Business Licenses › Subtitle 17A - Chain Stores › Section 17-17A-04 - License Fee Based on Number of Locations -- License Fees

(a)    An applicant for a chain store license shall pay to the clerk a license fee based on the number of locations in the State.
(b)    (1)    This subsection does not apply in Baltimore City, Baltimore County, and Cecil County.
(2)    The license fee in each county is:
(i)    for 2 to 5 stores, $5 for each store;
(ii)    for 6 to 10 stores, $20 for each store;
(iii)    for 11 to 20 stores, $100 for each store; and
(iv)    for more than 20 stores, $150 for each store.
(c)    In Baltimore City and Baltimore County the license fee is:
(1)    for 2 to 5 stores, $12 for each store;
(2)    for 6 to 10 stores, $50 for each store;
(3)    for 11 to 20 stores, $250 for each store; and
(4)    for more than 20 stores, $150 for each store.
(d)    In Cecil County the license fee is:
(1)    for 2 to 5 stores, $10 for each store;
(2)    for 6 to 10 stores, $30 for each store;
(3)    for 11 to 20 stores, $100 for each store; and
(4)    for more than 20 stores, $300 for each store.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 17 - Miscellaneous State Business Licenses › Subtitle 18 - Traders › Section 17-1801 - Definitions

(a)    In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)    “Blind Industries” means Blind Industries and Services of Maryland.
(c)    “Exhibitor” means a person who rents space from a promoter to display and sell goods at a show.
(d)    “Licensed trader” means a trader who is licensed by the clerk under this subtitle.
(e)    “Mobile place of business” means a place of business located in a truck, trailer, or other vehicle and not in a building or other fixed structure.
(f)    “Promoter” means a person who rents space at a show to an exhibitor.
(g)    “Show” includes an antique show, coin show, flea market, gun show, stamp show, and show of a temporary nature.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 17 - Miscellaneous State Business Licenses › Subtitle 18 - Traders › Section 17-1803 - Trader's License Required

(a)    Except as otherwise provided in this subtitle, a person must have a trader’s license whenever the person:
(1)    does business as a trader in the State; or
(2)    does business as an exhibitor in the State.
(b)    A separate trader’s license is required for each store or place of business that a person operates in the State.
(c)    (1)    A separate trader’s license is required for each mobile place of business that operates exclusively in one fixed location in the State.
(2)    Each mobile place of business that operates in more than one location in the State requires a trader’s license and a peddler’s license issued under Subtitle 9 of this title.
(d)    This section does not apply to:
(1)    a grower, maker, or manufacturer of goods;
(2)    a nonresident traveling salesperson, sample merchant, or representative of a foreign mercantile or manufacturing business while selling to or soliciting an order from a licensed trader in the State;
(3)    a private individual while publicly selling the individual’s personal effects on the individual’s property, if the individual holds only 1 sale not exceeding 14 consecutive days in a calendar year; or
(4)    a restaurant licensed under Subtitle 16 of this title.
(e)    (1)    An exhibitor need not get a trader’s license for a show if the show is promoted by:
(i)    a church, as defined in § 5–301(b) of the Corporations and Associations Article;
(ii)    a governmental unit;
(iii)    an amateur radio organization;
(iv)    an antique vehicle, machine, and equipment organization;
(v)    a volunteer fire department or rescue squad; or
(vi)    a model train collectors’ association.
(2)    An exhibitor need not get a trader’s license for a show if the exhibitor gives to the promoter an exhibitor’s affidavit stating that the exhibitor:
(i)    receives less than 10% of the exhibitor’s annual income from selling the kind of goods that the exhibitor will display and sell at the show; and
(ii)    has not participated in more than three shows, not including participation in one show sponsored by a national organization that is exempt from taxation under § 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, during the previous 365 days.
(3)    An exhibitor at an antique show, coin show, or collector show need not get a trader’s license for the show if the exhibitor gives to the promoter an exhibitor’s affidavit stating that the exhibitor:
(i)    will display and sell at the show;
(ii)    receives less than 10% of the exhibitor’s annual income in the State from selling the kind of goods that the exhibitor will display and sell at the show; and
(iii)    has not participated in more than three antique shows, coin shows, or collector shows in the State during the previous 365 days.
(4)    An exhibitor who has a trader’s license need not get an additional trader’s license for a show if, before the show, the exhibitor gives the promoter a photocopy of the trader’s license.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 17 - Miscellaneous State Business Licenses › Subtitle 18 - Traders › Section 17-1804 - Applications for Licenses

(a)    An applicant for a trader’s license shall state in the application the place where the applicant will do business as a trader.
(b)    (1)    An applicant for a trader’s license may apply under this subsection if the applicant has a defect in vision such that:
(i)    visual acuity in the applicant’s better eye does not exceed 20/140 with correcting lenses; or
(ii)    the widest diameter of the applicant’s visual field subtends an angle not exceeding 20 degrees.
(2)    An applicant for a trader’s license under this subsection shall submit to the clerk:
(i)    a signed certificate, from a licensed physician who specializes in treatment of the eye, that the applicant’s vision meets the standard of paragraph (1) of this subsection; and
(ii)    an affidavit that the applicant is the owner of the place of business listed in the application.
(3)    Blind Industries also may apply for a trader’s license under this subsection for a business that it operates, if Blind Industries submits to the clerk an affidavit that:
(i)    Blind Industries operates the business listed in the application; and
(ii)    the manager of the business has vision that meets the standard of paragraph (1) of this subsection.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 17 - Miscellaneous State Business Licenses › Subtitle 18 - Traders › Section 17-1805 - Approval of Zoning Authorities

(a)    (1)    In Baltimore County, the clerk may not issue a trader’s license for the first time without the approval of the zoning commissioner.
(2)    In an area of Cecil County where the Cecil County Office of Planning and Zoning has jurisdiction, the clerk may not issue a trader’s license for the first time until the applicant has obtained zoning approval from that office.
(3)    (i)    In Howard County, the clerk may not issue a trader’s license for the first time without the approval of the Director of the Office of Planning and Zoning.
(ii)    Within 3 working days after an application for a trader’s license is submitted for review to the Director of the Office of Planning and Zoning, the Director shall notify the clerk of the approval or disapproval of the application.
(4)    In Calvert County, the clerk may not issue a trader’s license without the approval of the Director of the Office of Planning and Zoning for all new licenses and for any changes to a location for an existing license.
(b)    The clerk shall indicate on each trader’s license the place where the licensed trader may do business as a trader.
(c)    (1)    This subsection does not apply to a county or municipal corporation that selects a uniform license fee under § 17–1806 of this subtitle.
(2)    A clerk may not issue a trader’s license until the clerk reviews the accuracy of the statement made by the applicant on the application for a trader’s license under § 17–1804 of this subtitle regarding the place where the applicant will do business as a trader.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 17 - Miscellaneous State Business Licenses › Subtitle 18 - Traders › Section 17-1806 - Selection of Uniform License Fee for a Trader's License

(a)    On or before December 1 each year, the governing body of a county or municipal corporation may select a uniform license fee for a trader’s license under § 17–1807(b) of this subtitle by submitting its selection on a form provided by the Comptroller and the State Department of Assessments and Taxation.
(b)    A selection by the governing body of a county or municipal corporation under this section is irrevocable.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 17 - Miscellaneous State Business Licenses › Subtitle 18 - Traders › Section 17-1808 - Scope of License

(a)    (1)    The clerk shall state on each trader’s license the place where the licensee may do business as a trader.
(2)    A trader may keep a place of business only at the place stated on the trader’s license.
(b)    A trader’s license issued to an exhibitor authorizes the holder to do business as an exhibitor at any show in the State.
(c)    A trader’s license issued to a peddler, as defined in § 17–901 of this title, authorizes the holder of the trader’s license to act as a peddler only in the county where the trader’s license was issued.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 17 - Miscellaneous State Business Licenses › Subtitle 18 - Traders › Section 17-1809 - Disputing Value of Stock-in-Trade

(a)    (1)    If a trader disputes the value of the trader’s stock–in–trade on which the license fee is based, the trader may submit in accordance with the Tax – Property Article an appeal to the State Department of Assessments and Taxation as to the value of the stock–in–trade.
(2)    To avoid being in default, the trader may pay the license fee and get a trader’s license with the understanding that the trader will get a refund of any excess amount paid for the trader’s license.
(b)    (1)    If the State Department of Assessments and Taxation reduces the value of the stock–in–trade, resulting in a lower license fee, the licensed trader may get a refund of any excess amount paid by submitting to the clerk who issued the trader’s license:
(i)    a claim for the refund; and
(ii)    supporting evidence of the reduction from the State Department of Assessments and Taxation.
(2)    On approving the claim, the clerk shall pay the refund.
(c)    If the clerk pays a refund, the clerk shall deduct the amount of the refund from the license fees distributed to the county or municipal corporation that receives the fee.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 17 - Miscellaneous State Business Licenses › Subtitle 18 - Traders › Section 17-1810 - Transfer of License

(a)    Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, a trader may transfer the trader’s license to a person who:
(1)    buys the stock–in–trade of the trader; and
(2)    buys or rents the place of business of the trader.
(b)    (1)    A trader’s license issued to a visually handicapped individual or Blind Industries is not transferable.
(2)    However, Blind Industries may change the manager of the place of business for which a trader’s license was issued if the new manager has vision that meets the standard of § 17–1804(b)(1) of this subtitle.
(c)    Whenever a trader sells the trader’s stock–in–trade and transfers the trader’s license:
(1)    the transfer of the trader’s license shall be reported to the clerk who issued the license; and
(2)    the clerk shall record the transfer of the trader’s license.
(d)    (1)    In Baltimore County, the clerk may not issue a transferred trader’s license without the approval of the zoning commissioner.
(2)    In Calvert County, the clerk may not issue a transferred trader’s license unless the zoning requirements under § 17–307 of this title are met.
(e)    A person who buys a trader’s license may do business as a trader for the rest of the term of the trader’s license.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 17 - Miscellaneous State Business Licenses › Subtitle 18 - Traders › Section 17-1811 - Duties of Promoter at Show

(a)    A promoter may not allow an exhibitor to do business at a show unless, before the show, the exhibitor submits to the promoter:
(1)    a photocopy of the trader’s license of the exhibitor; or
(2)    an exhibitor’s affidavit in accordance with § 17–1803(d)(2) or (3) of this subtitle.
(b)    The exhibitor’s affidavit or the photocopy of the trader’s license shall be displayed conspicuously during the show.
(c)    Within 7 days after a show ends, the promoter shall submit to the Comptroller the exhibitors’ affidavits.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 17 - Miscellaneous State Business Licenses › Subtitle 18 - Traders › Section 17-1812 - Violating Provisions on Licenses for Visually Handicapped Individuals or Blind Industries; Penalty

A person, including a licensed physician, who violates or conspires to violate any provision of this subtitle that relates to trader’s licenses for visually handicapped individuals or Blind Industries is guilty of a misdemeanor and, on conviction, is subject to a fine not exceeding $1,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 6 months or both.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 17 - Miscellaneous State Business Licenses › Subtitle 19 - Vending Machines › Section 17-1902 - Scope of Subtitle

This subtitle does not apply to:
(1)    the sale or offering for sale of newspapers, magazines, paper cups, paper or cloth towels, soap, toilet seat covers, postage stamps, or sanitary napkins;
(2)    the sale or offering for sale of merchandise through a bulk vending machine as defined in § 11–201.1 of the Tax – General Article; or
(3)    the sale of tobacco products through a vending machine under Title 16, Subtitle 3A of this article.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 17 - Miscellaneous State Business Licenses › Subtitle 19 - Vending Machines › Section 17-1904 - License Fees

(a)    An applicant for a vending machine license shall pay to the clerk a license fee of $2.50 for each vending machine.
(b)    All vending machine license fees collected under this section shall be paid to the Comptroller.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 17 - Miscellaneous State Business Licenses › Subtitle 19 - Vending Machines › Section 17-1905 - Identification of Vending Machines

(a)    The Comptroller shall print and deliver to the clerk a license sticker for each vending machine.
(b)    The clerk shall give each vending machine licensee a license sticker for each vending machine.
(c)    (1)    Subject to regulations adopted by the Comptroller, the license sticker shall be attached to the vending machine so that the identification label is easily visible.
(2)    In addition, the name and telephone number of the vending machine licensee or owner of the vending machine shall be displayed on each vending machine so that the name and telephone number are easily visible.
(d)    (1)    If an inspector finds that a vending machine does not display the license sticker required by this section, the inspector promptly shall:
(i)    notify the vending machine licensee or owner in writing of the violation; and
(ii)    require that the vending machine licensee or owner display the license sticker properly within 10 days after receiving notice of the violation.
(2)    If the vending machine licensee or owner fails to display the license sticker properly within 10 days, the inspector shall:
(i)    seal the vending machine to prevent further use; and
(ii)    take necessary action to enforce the licensing provisions of this subtitle.
(3)    If neither the license sticker nor the name and telephone number of the vending machine licensee or owner are displayed properly, the inspector:
(i)    immediately shall seal the vending machine to prevent further use; and
(ii)    shall take necessary action to enforce this subtitle.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 17 - Miscellaneous State Business Licenses › Subtitle 19 - Vending Machines › Section 17-1906 - Selling Through Vending Machine Without License

(a)    A person may not sell goods or offer goods for sale through a vending machine in the State unless the person has a vending machine license that covers that machine.
(b)    An unauthorized person may not remove or tamper with a license sticker or seal on a vending machine.
(c)    A person who violates any provision of this subtitle is guilty of a misdemeanor and, on conviction, is subject to a fine not exceeding $100.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 17 - Miscellaneous State Business Licenses › Subtitle 20A - Transient Vendors › Section 17-20A-01 - "Transient Vendor" Defined

In this subtitle:
(1)    “transient vendor” means a person who makes sales subject to the sales and use tax in the State from a motor vehicle or from a roadside or temporary location, excluding sales from a location that the vendor owns; and
(2)    “transient vendor” does not include:
(i)    a person whose only activities in the State are the delivery of goods in interstate commerce into the State from outside the State pursuant to orders that were solicited or placed by mail or other means;
(ii)    a person who hand crafts items for sale at special events, including fairs, carnivals, art and craft shows, and other festivals and celebrations in the State;
(iii)    an exhibitor, within the meaning of § 17-1801(d) of this title; or
(iv)    an individual who sells by catalogue, sample, or brochure for future delivery and who makes sales to the owner or legal occupant of the premises pursuant to the invitation of the owner or legal occupant of the premises.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 17 - Miscellaneous State Business Licenses › Subtitle 20A - Transient Vendors › Section 17-20A-02 - License Required

(a)    (1)    Before conducting business in the State, a transient vendor shall obtain a transient vendor’s license.
(2)    The Comptroller may not issue a transient vendor’s license unless the transient vendor has a sales and use tax license and any necessary trader’s license and has paid all State taxes.
(3)    An application for a transient vendor’s license shall be in the form and contain the information that the Comptroller requires by regulation.
(4)    A license required under this section shall be valid for not more than 90 days.
(5)    The Comptroller may not renew a license required under this section unless the transient vendor has a sales and use tax license and any necessary trader’s license and has paid all State taxes.
(b)    A transient vendor shall display the transient vendor’s license at each transient place of business.
(c)    The transient vendor’s license shall be on the form specified by the Comptroller.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 17 - Miscellaneous State Business Licenses › Subtitle 20A - Transient Vendors › Section 17-20A-03 - Notification of Comptroller; Inspection; Suspension or Revocation of License

(a)    The Comptroller may provide by regulation or may order in an individual case that at least 10 days before entering the State to conduct business, a transient vendor shall notify the Comptroller, in writing, of the location or locations where it intends to conduct business and the date or dates on which it intends to conduct business.
(b)    While conducting business in the State, a transient vendor shall permit the Comptroller to inspect:
(1)    its sales records, including sales receipts and inventory or price lists; and
(2)    the goods offered for sale.
(c)    Subject to the hearing provisions of subsection (d) of this section, the Comptroller may suspend or revoke a license issued to a transient vendor under this subtitle if the transient vendor:
(1)    fails to notify the Comptroller as required under subsection (a) of this section;
(2)    provides false information to the Comptroller;
(3)    fails to collect the sales and use tax on all sales as required under Title 11 of the Tax - General Article; or
(4)    otherwise fails to comply with the provisions of the sales and use tax law or the provisions of this subtitle.
(d)    (1)    Except as otherwise provided in § 10-226 of the State Government Article, before the Comptroller takes any final action under this section, the Comptroller shall give the person against whom the action is contemplated an opportunity for a hearing before the Comptroller.
(2)    The Comptroller shall give notice and hold the hearing in accordance with Title 10, Subtitle 2 of the State Government Article.
(3)    The Comptroller may administer oaths in a proceeding under this subsection.
(4)    If, after due notice, the person against whom the action is contemplated does not appear, nevertheless the Comptroller may hear and determine the matter.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 17 - Miscellaneous State Business Licenses › Subtitle 20A - Transient Vendors › Section 17-20A-05 - Conducting Business Without Displaying License Prohibited

A transient vendor who conducts business in the State without displaying a valid transient vendor’s license is guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction is subject to a fine not to exceed $500 for each offense.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 17 - Miscellaneous State Business Licenses › Subtitle 20A - Transient Vendors › Section 17-20A-06 - Effect on Other Laws

The requirements of this subtitle are in addition to and do not exempt or otherwise alter the obligations of a transient vendor under the requirements of:
(1)    the sales and use tax law under Titles 11 and 13 of the Tax - General Article; and
(2)    any other licensing or permit requirements under this title or under any other laws of the State or a subdivision of the State.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 17 - Miscellaneous State Business Licenses › Subtitle 21 - General Prohibited Acts; Penalties › Section 17-2104 - Initiation of Prosecution

With the approval of the Comptroller, the chief license inspector or an assistant license inspector shall begin proceedings to prosecute each person who:
(1)    is required to get a license from a clerk under this title; but
(2)    fails to get the license or to pay an adequate license fee.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 17 - Miscellaneous State Business Licenses › Subtitle 21 - General Prohibited Acts; Penalties › Section 17-2105 - Prima Facie Evidence of Sale

In a prosecution for selling goods without an appropriate license, proof that the defendant displayed or offered the goods for sale or kept a place of business where the goods were displayed or offered for sale is prima facie evidence that the defendant sold goods.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 17 - Miscellaneous State Business Licenses › Subtitle 21 - General Prohibited Acts; Penalties › Section 17-2106 - General Penalty

(a)    Except as otherwise specifically provided in this title, a person who violates this subtitle is guilty of a misdemeanor and, on conviction, is subject to a fine not exceeding $300 or imprisonment not exceeding 30 days.
(b)    Each agent or officer of a corporation convicted of violating this subtitle who actually engaged in the unlicensed business is individually subject to the penalties provided by law.
(c)    The penalty provided in this section does not affect any other penalty specifically provided by law for a violation of a license law.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 18 - Sunday Blue Laws › Subtitle 1 - State Sunday Blue Laws › Section 18-101 - Retail and Wholesale Establishments

(a)    (1)    This section does not apply to the laws that relate to the sale of alcoholic beverages.
(2)    This section does not apply in Wicomico County.
(b)    Subject to this section and § 3–704 of the Labor and Employment Article, a retail or wholesale establishment may do business on Sunday.
(c)    Notwithstanding an agreement to the contrary between a merchant and landlord:
(1)    the landlord may not directly or indirectly require the merchant to open the merchant’s place of business on Sunday; and
(2)    a landlord may not directly or indirectly cancel or refuse to renew the merchant’s lease because the merchant refuses to open the merchant’s place of business on Sunday.
(d)    Except in Howard, Montgomery, and Prince George’s counties, and except as provided in subsections (g), (h), and (i) of this section, a new or used car dealer may not sell, barter, deliver, give away, show, or offer for sale a motor vehicle or certificate of title for a motor vehicle on Sunday.
(e)    In Anne Arundel County, a dealer may sell, barter, deliver, give away, show, or offer for sale on Sunday a new or used camping trailer, mobile home, or travel trailer, as those terms are defined in Title 11 of the Transportation Article.
(f)    A new or used car dealer who violates subsection (d) of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, on conviction, is subject to a fine not exceeding $10,000.
(g)    In Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Harford County, and Worcester County, a dealer may sell, barter, deliver, give away, show, or offer for sale a motorcycle, as defined in § 11–136 of the Transportation Article, or certificate of title for a motorcycle on Sunday.
(h)    In Baltimore City, a used car dealer may sell, barter, deliver, give away, show, or offer for sale a motor vehicle or certificate of title for a motor vehicle on Sunday, instead of Saturday, if the dealer notifies the Motor Vehicle Administration in advance that the dealer intends to conduct business on Sunday, instead of Saturday.
(i)    In Charles County, the County Commissioners, after a public hearing, may adopt an ordinance authorizing a new or used car dealer to sell, barter, deliver, give away, show, or offer for sale a motor vehicle or certificate of title for a motor vehicle on Sunday.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 18 - Sunday Blue Laws › Subtitle 2 - Wicomico County Sunday Blue Laws › Section 18-202 - Retail and Wholesale Establishments

(a)    This section does not apply to the laws that relate to the sale of alcoholic beverages.
(b)    Subject to this section and § 3–704 of the Labor and Employment Article, a retail or wholesale establishment may do business on Sunday.
(c)    Notwithstanding an agreement to the contrary between a merchant and landlord:
(1)    the landlord may not directly or indirectly require the merchant to open the merchant’s place of business on Sunday; and
(2)    a landlord may not directly or indirectly cancel or refuse to renew the merchant’s lease because the merchant refuses to open the merchant’s place of business on Sunday.
(d)    (1)    Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, a new or used car dealer may not sell, barter, deliver, give away, show, or offer for sale a motor vehicle or certificate of title for a motor vehicle on Sunday.
(2)    A vehicle dealer may sell, barter, deliver, give away, show, or offer for sale a motorcycle, as defined in § 11–136 of the Transportation Article, or certificate of title for a motorcycle on Sunday.
(e)    The State’s Attorney of Wicomico County may sue in the circuit court for Wicomico County to enjoin a violation of this section.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 19 - Miscellaneous State Business Regulation › Subtitle 1 - General Provisions › Section 19-101 - Tourist or Travelers' Guide or Information Services

(a)    A person other than as an agent or employee of the United States or a state or a political subdivision of the United States or a state may not use the word “official”, or its equivalent, in connection with a tourist or travelers’ guide or information service or with related advertising or publicity.
(b)    (1)    In this subsection, “advertisement” includes a display or sign that is visible from a public highway.
(2)    A person may not conduct or operate a tourist or travelers’ information service unless each affixed advertisement that announces the service by the prominent display of the word “information” or a synonym includes, in letters that are at least half the size of the largest letters in the advertisement and that are lighted and displayed with substantially equal prominence, a complete list of names, headed “Sales Agents For” or the equivalent, of each business from which a person, directly or indirectly connected with the service, receives a commission, fee, or other payment or remuneration for referrals to the business.
(3)    This subsection does not apply to:
(i)    a bona fide chamber or association of commerce of cities, towns, or counties of the State; or
(ii)    an information service furnished by a retail business if remuneration is not received from any other business other than for goods sold on the premises.
(c)    Any person who violates any provision of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a penalty not exceeding $500 for each offense.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 19 - Miscellaneous State Business Regulation › Subtitle 1 - General Provisions › Section 19-103 - National Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline Information

(a)    (1)    In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)    “Adult entertainment” means live entertainment:
(i)    in which individuals appear for public view in a state of nudity or partial nudity; or
(ii)    that, applying contemporary standards, the average individual would find, taken as a whole, appeals to the prurient interest.
(3)    “Adult entertainment establishment” means a business establishment where adult entertainment is offered.
(4)    “Truck stop” means a facility:
(i)    the primary purpose of which is to provide services to long–haul truck drivers; and
(ii)    that provides:
1.    shower facilities to the truck drivers for a fee; or
2.    parking for the truck drivers’ vehicles.
(b)    (1)    The owner of a privately owned bus station, truck stop, or adult entertainment establishment shall post the National Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline information sign described in § 15–207 of this article in each restroom of the bus station, truck stop, or adult entertainment establishment.
(2)    A sign required under this section shall be posted:
(i)    on the inside of each stall door in the restroom; or
(ii)    on the back of the door at the entrance to the restroom.
(c)    (1)    An agency that enforces this section and determines that a violation of this section has occurred shall notify the business owner of the bus station, truck stop, or adult entertainment establishment, or the business owner’s agent, of the violation.
(2)    If the business owner of the bus station, truck stop, or adult entertainment establishment does not post signs as required under this section within 24 hours after receiving the notice required under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the business owner is subject to a civil penalty not exceeding $1,000.
(3)    For each restroom in which a business owner fails to post a sign in accordance with this section, the business owner is subject to a separate civil penalty.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 19 - Miscellaneous State Business Regulation › Subtitle 1 - General Provisions › Section 19-104 - Business Discounts and Preferences for Veterans -- Identification

A business registered with the State Department of Assessments and Taxation that offers a discount or preference on products or services to veterans shall accept a valid driver’s license or identification card issued under § 12–302 of the Transportation Article that includes a notation of veteran status as verification of the veteran status of the holder of the driver’s license or identification card for purposes of claiming the discount or preference.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 19 - Miscellaneous State Business Regulation › Subtitle 1 - General Provisions › Section 19-105 - Commercial Sales of Dogs or Cats -- Prohibited Acts

(a)    This section does not apply to:
(1)    an animal welfare organization or animal control unit displaying dogs or cats for adoption or the adoption of dogs or cats from an animal welfare organization or animal control unit; or
(2)    a dog breeder and a specific individual purchaser conducting a prearranged sale of a dog if the location of the prearranged sale is not at a regularly scheduled or recurring event.
(b)    A person may not offer for sale, sell, offer to transfer, transfer, barter, trade, or auction a dog or cat at any public place, including:
(1)    a street;
(2)    a highway;
(3)    a public right–of–way;
(4)    a public parking lot;
(5)    a carnival;
(6)    a boardwalk;
(7)    a swap meet;
(8)    a fair; or
(9)    a flea market.
(c)    An animal control officer under the jurisdiction of the State or a local governing body and an officer of a society or association, incorporated under the laws of the State for the prevention of cruelty to animals, authorized to make arrests under § 10–609 of the Criminal Law Article may enforce subsection (b) of this section.
(d)    A person who violates this section is subject to:
(1)    for a first violation, a civil penalty not exceeding $500;
(2)    for a second violation, a civil penalty not exceeding $1,000; and
(3)    for a third or subsequent violation, a civil penalty not exceeding $1,500.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 19 - Miscellaneous State Business Regulation › Subtitle 1 - General Provisions › Section 19-106 - Corporate Diversity Required of Entity Qualifying for Certain State Benefits -- State Equity Report

(a)    (1)    In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)    “Entity” means:
(i)    a commercial enterprise or business that is in good
standing with the State Department of Assessments and Taxation and is:
1.    incorporated in the State; or
2.    registered to do business in the State; or
(ii)    a corporation, foundation, school, hospital, or other legal entity for which none of the net earnings inure to the benefit of any private shareholder or individual holding an interest in the entity.
(3)    “State benefit” means:
(i)    State capital grant funding totaling $1,000,000 or
more in a single fiscal year;
(ii)    State tax credits totaling $1,000,000 or more in a single fiscal year; or
(iii)    the receipt of a State contract with a total value of $1,000,000 or more.
(4)    “State contract” means a contract that:
(i)    resulted from a competitive procurement process; and
(ii)    is not federally funded in any way.
(5)    “Underrepresented community” means a community whose members self–identify:
(i)    as Black, African American, Hispanic, Latino, Asian, Pacific Islander, Native American, Native Hawaiian, or Alaska Native; or
(ii)    with one or more of the racial or ethnic groups listed in item (i) of this paragraph.
(b)    This section does not apply to:
(1)    a sole proprietor;
(2)    a limited liability company owned by a single member;
(3)    a privately held company if at least 75% of the company’s shareholders are family members; or
(4)    an entity that:
(i)    has an annual operating budget or annual sales  less than $5,000,000; and
(ii)    does not qualify for a State benefit.
(c)    An entity may not qualify for a State benefit unless the entity is able to demonstrate:
(1)    membership of underrepresented communities in the entity’s board or executive leadership; or
(2)    support for underrepresented communities in the entity’s mission.
(d)    The Department of Commerce and the Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs shall:
(1)    develop and maintain a State Equity Report that compiles diversity data for each entity on:
(i)    the membership of underrepresented communities in the entity’s board or executive leadership; and
(ii)    the support of underrepresented communities in the entity’s mission; and
(2)    adopt regulations to carry out this section, including directives for State agencies and entities to comply with the requirements in this section.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 19 - Miscellaneous State Business Regulation › Subtitle 2 - Organizational Insignia › Section 19-201 - "Organization" Defined

In this subtitle, “organization” means an incorporated or unincorporated society, association, organization, lodge, order, fraternal society, beneficial association, fraternal and beneficial society or association, historical, military, or veterans’ organization, labor union, foundation, federation, degree, branch, subordinate lodge, or auxiliary.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 19 - Miscellaneous State Business Regulation › Subtitle 2 - Organizational Insignia › Section 19-202 - Registration of Name or Insignia

(a)    (1)    Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, an organization may register with the Secretary of State a facsimile, duplicate, or description of its name or insignia, including a badge, motto, button, decoration, charm, emblem, or rosette if the principles and activities of the organization are not repugnant to the Constitution and laws of the United States or this State.
(2)    An organization that registers a name or insignia under this subsection may change or cancel the registration by reregistration.
(b)    The Secretary of State may not register a name or insignia of an organization if the name or insignia is similar to, imitates, or so nearly resembles another name or insignia registered under this section as to be likely to deceive.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 19 - Miscellaneous State Business Regulation › Subtitle 2 - Organizational Insignia › Section 19-204 - Fees

(a)    Any fees that the Secretary of State establishes for registration, alteration, cancellation, research, and the issuance of certificates under this subtitle shall be as provided by law for similar services.
(b)    The Secretary of State shall pay fees collected under this subtitle, less administrative costs, into the General Fund of the State.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 19 - Miscellaneous State Business Regulation › Subtitle 2 - Organizational Insignia › Section 19-206 - Record of Registration

(a)    (1)    The Secretary of State shall keep a properly indexed record of registrations granted under this subtitle.
(2)    The record shall show any altered or canceled registration.
(b)    The Secretary of State shall issue a certificate of registration to each person granted a registration under this subtitle.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 19 - Miscellaneous State Business Regulation › Subtitle 2 - Organizational Insignia › Section 19-207 - Prohibited Acts; Penalties

(a)    A person may not falsely impersonate an officer or member of a military or patriotic organization, grand or subordinate lodge, or fraternal or sororal society that is chartered or has grand or subordinate lodges in the State.
(b)    (1)    Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, a person may not wear, or use to obtain aid, assistance, or personal or social recognition from a person in the State, the insignia of a military or patriotic organization, or a lodge or fraternal society that is chartered or has grand or subordinate lodges in the State, unless the person is entitled to use or wear the insignia under the constitution, bylaws, or rules of the organization, lodge, or society.
(2)    Nothing in this subsection may be construed to prohibit a person from wearing an insignia of a lodge or society if the person is a parent, sibling, child, or spouse of a member of the lodge or society who is entitled to wear the insignia under this subsection.
(3)    A person who violates this subsection is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $200.
(c)    (1)    A person may not wear willfully, or use to obtain aid or assistance in the State, the insignia of the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, or the Disabled American Veterans, unless the person is entitled to use or wear the insignia under the constitution, bylaws, or rules of the organization.
(2)    A person who violates this subsection is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to:
(i)    a fine not exceeding $25; or
(ii)    if payment of the fine is defaulted, imprisonment not exceeding 30 days.
(d)    (1)    A person may not willfully wear, exhibit, display, print, or use the insignia that is registered under this subtitle, unless the person is entitled to use or wear the insignia under the constitution, bylaws, or rules of the organization.
(2)    A person who violates this subsection is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to:
(i)    a fine not exceeding $100; or
(ii)    if payment of the fine is defaulted, imprisonment not exceeding 60 days.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 19 - Miscellaneous State Business Regulation › Subtitle 3 - Returnable Containers and Returnable Textiles › Section 19-301 - Definitions

(a)    In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)    (1)    “Returnable container” means a device made of any material:
(i)    that is used to hold, contain, or convert goods into a package, either by necessity or for convenience of delivery or sale;
(ii)    that is suitable for repeated use; and
(iii)    the title to which the seller does not intend to pass with the sale of the goods or the transport or return of the goods, as provided in item (2)(ii) of this section.
(2)    “Returnable container” includes:
(i)    a basket, tray, milk crate, or any type of container that is used by a bakery, dairy, distributor, retailer, food service establishment, or its agent, to transport, store, or carry goods including bakery or dairy products; and
(ii)    a bag, box, basket, or any other device:
1.    that is intended for repeated use;
2.    that is used to hold or contain goods that are being:
A.    transported to a laundry, dry cleaning, or dyeing establishment to be washed, laundered, dry cleaned, or dyed; or
B.    returned to the person entitled to the return; and
3.    the title to which the seller does not intend to pass by the transport or return of the goods.
(c)    “Returnable textile” means a garment, towel, table linen, or bed linen with an identifying name, mark, or device woven, impressed, or produced on it, that is regularly supplied clean, and periodically exchanged for a similar soiled textile.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 19 - Miscellaneous State Business Regulation › Subtitle 3 - Returnable Containers and Returnable Textiles › Section 19-302 - Rules of Construction

(a)    In this subtitle, requiring or accepting a deposit on a registered returnable container, whether optional, conditional, or otherwise, does not constitute a sale of the container.
(b)    (1)    The owner of a returnable container or returnable textile may bring a civil action, including an action for injunctive relief, to preserve the rights of the owner, to recover damages, or to recover the returnable container or returnable textile, from a person who unlawfully possesses the returnable container or returnable textile of the owner.
(2)    In an action brought under this subsection, the owner of a returnable container or returnable textile may recover up to three times the value of the actual damages, plus reasonable attorney’s fees.
(c)    This subtitle does not prohibit a prosecution for theft under § 7–104 of the Criminal Law Article.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 19 - Miscellaneous State Business Regulation › Subtitle 3 - Returnable Containers and Returnable Textiles › Section 19-303 - Registration

(a)    (1)    A person may register:
(i)    a class of returnable containers if:
1.    the person owns or deals in goods handled or delivered in a returnable container; and
2.    the returnable container has an identifying name, mark, or device securely attached, impressed, or imprinted; or
(ii)    a class of returnable textiles, if the person:
1.    is in the business of regularly supplying clean laundered returnable textiles; and
2.    periodically exchanges the clean returnable textiles for soiled returnable textiles.
(2)    A person who has registered a returnable container or returnable textile under State law is not required to reregister the returnable container or returnable textile.
(b)    To register a returnable container or returnable textile a person shall:
(1)    (i)    prepare a clear statement of the character of the returnable container or returnable textile; and
(ii)    prepare a comprehensive description of the identifying name, mark, or device attached, impressed, imprinted, woven, or produced;
(2)    sign and acknowledge the comprehensive description before an officer qualified to take an acknowledgment to deeds in the State;
(3)    publish the signed and acknowledged comprehensive description:
(i)    in two successive issues, in different weeks, of a newspaper published in the county in which the principal office, place of business, or agency of the person is located; or
(ii)    twice a week for 2 successive weeks in a daily newspaper published in Baltimore City if the principal office, place of business, or agency of the person is located in Baltimore City; and
(4)    file with the Secretary of State the comprehensive description and a certificate of publication, certified by the owner or manager of the newspaper in which the comprehensive description was published.
(c)    A person may transfer a registration by filing a copy of the assignment or transfer with the Secretary of State.
(d)    (1)    The Secretary of State shall record each:
(i)    comprehensive description filed under subsection (b) of this section;
(ii)    certificate of publication filed under subsection (b) of this section; and
(iii)    transfer filed under subsection (c) of this section.
(2)    On application, the Secretary of State shall provide to the applicant a certified copy of a recorded filing.
(3)    The Secretary of State shall establish reasonable fees:
(i)    for recording under this section; and
(ii)    for providing copies of records filed under this section.
(e)    A certified copy of a comprehensive description and a certificate of publication or of a transfer with the seal of the Secretary of State attached is:
(1)    evidence that the person complied with this subtitle; and
(2)    prima facie evidence of:
(i)    title to or right to use, collect, or deliver the corresponding returnable containers; and
(ii)    title to the corresponding returnable textiles.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 19 - Miscellaneous State Business Regulation › Subtitle 3 - Returnable Containers and Returnable Textiles › Section 19-305 - Warrants

A District Court judge shall issue a search warrant, authorizing a search of the premises specified in the warrant, to a sheriff, deputy sheriff, or other law enforcement officer to whom a warrant may be directed, if a person who has registered a returnable container or returnable textile, or the person’s agent, makes an affidavit before the judge, stating that:
(1)    the affiant demonstrates probable cause to believe that a violation of § 19–304(a), (b), (c), or (d) of this subtitle has occurred; and
(2)    evidence of the violation may be obtained by a search of premises specified by the affiant.