Maryland Agriculture Section 2-1102

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

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

      (d)      The Secretary shall hold the Fund separately and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.

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

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