# Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis (GAB)

## Title 6. Forfeitures; Enforcement; Prohibited Acts; Penalties

### Subtitle 1. Forfeitures

#### Section 6-101

(a) Alcoholic beverages, unauthorized consumable products, as defined under Sec. 1-323 of this article, and other contraband kept, possessed, used, sold, manufactured, stored, or transported in violation of this article:

  (1) are subject to seizure and forfeiture; and

  (2) when seized, may be recovered or disposed of only as provided in this subtitle.

(b) Property is forfeited if it:

  (1) was seized as contraband in the possession or control of a defendant who is found guilty of violating this article;

  (2) is otherwise found to be contraband or in violation of this article; or

  (3) was seized in accordance with Sec. 1-323 of this article.

(c)

  (1) Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, property is forfeited if it:

    (i) is seized as contraband and remains unclaimed for 30 days after seizure; and

    (ii) has not been destroyed in accordance with this subtitle.

  (2)

    (i) A vehicle, a vessel, or an aircraft that is seized as contraband is forfeited unless a protest is filed within 30 days after the publication under subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph.

    (ii) The Comptroller or the Executive Director, as appropriate:

      (1) if possible, shall notify the registered owner of the property of the seizure; and

      (2) shall publish a notice:

      (A) in a newspaper of general circulation in the county where the vehicle, vessel, or aircraft was seized; and

      (B) informing interested persons of the seizure and the right to file a protest.

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Md. Code Ann., Alco. Bev. (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)