§ 2-1102. Maryland Wine and Grape Promotion Fund.

   (a) Established. -- There is a Maryland Wine and Grape Promotion Fund.

(b)  Purpose. -- The purpose of the Fund is to provide grants to nongovernmental organizations and to conduct other activities for the purpose of promoting:

   (1) The production and consumption of Maryland wine in the State; and

   (2) The production of grapes in the State.

(c) Status. -- The Fund is a special nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7-302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.

(d) Fund held separately; accounting. -- The Secretary shall hold the Fund separately and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.

(e)  Administrative allowance. -- The Department may deduct not more than 2% of the proceeds paid into the Fund for administration expenses incurred by the Department.

(f) Contents. -- The Fund consists of:

   (1) Money appropriated in the State budget to the Fund; and

   (2) Any other money from any other source accepted for the benefit of the Fund.

(g) Allowed uses of Fund. -- The Fund may only be used for the following purposes related to the production and consumption of Maryland wine and the production of grapes in the State:

   (1) Grants;

   (2) Marketing;

   (3) Research;

   (4) Advertising;

   (5) Retailer promotions;

   (6) Festival promotions;

   (7) Administrative costs of the Council; and

   (8) Educational seminars.

(h) Approval of grants. -- On recommendation from the Council, the Board of Public Works shall approve expenditures from the Fund in the forms of grants to nongovernmental organizations.

HISTORY: 2005, ch. 320.