In a significant shift for Baltimore’s regulatory landscape, Governor Wes Moore has exercised newly granted authority to remove most members of the city’s Board of Liquor License Commissioners. The action, confirmed on a Thursday, marks the first time a Maryland governor has taken direct control over appointments to the Baltimore liquor board following a recent change in state law.

The board, which consists of four members responsible for overseeing liquor licensing and enforcement throughout Baltimore City, saw the departure of several key figures, including former chair Albert Matricciani Jr., former member Edward Reisinger, and former alternate Harvey Jones. State officials confirmed that the removals were carried out in accordance with the updated legal framework.

The change stems from legislation passed last year that transferred the power to appoint liquor board members from Baltimore lawmakers to the governor’s office. Previously, local legislators held sway over these appointments, a structure that has now been upended in favor of centralized state control.

Matricciani had served on the board since 2016, bringing nearly a decade of experience to the regulatory body. His removal, along with that of Reisinger and Jones, signals a broader reshaping of the board’s leadership and priorities under Governor Moore’s administration.

The governor’s office has not yet announced replacements for the vacated positions, nor has it detailed any immediate policy changes for the board. The current status of the board’s operations remains stable, with remaining members continuing their duties as new appointments are anticipated.

This development underscores the evolving relationship between state leadership and local governance in Baltimore, particularly in areas involving regulatory oversight and licensing. Further announcements regarding new board appointments are expected in the coming weeks.