Two bills that would shift regulatory power of alcohol, tobacco and motor fuel from Maryland Comptroller Peter Franchot’s office to a new commission—and limit those industries from donating money to Franchot—were discussed at competing press conferences and a heated committee meeting last week.

The Field Enforcement Division of the Comptroller’s Office enforces state laws on alcohol, tobacco and motor fuels. Senate Bill 703 and House Bill 1052 would make that office part of a new Alcohol, Tobacco and Motor Fuel Commission.

Senate Bill 687 would prevent the comptroller and those employees, members of licensing boards and officers appointed or elected to trusts or profits from receiving contributions greater than $100 from the alcohol industry.

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