Bill > HB277

This bill requires the installation of water bottle filling stations in certain buildings beginning October 1, 2025, with specific requirements for new construction and renovations. A water bottle filling station is defined as a plumbing fixture connected to the potable water system designed to fill water bottles at least 10 inches tall, which can be a separate or integrated drinking fountain and may include a water filter and cooling system. The bill mandates that at least one water bottle filling station or combined water bottle filling station and drinking fountain must be installed in new construction where a drinking fountain is required, replace existing drinking fountains during renovations, and be installed in building renovations that would typically require a drinking fountain. There are exceptions for standalone drinking fountain replacements in commercial or industrial areas and buildings with alternative potable water sources. The Maryland Department of Labor is tasked with adopting regulations to implement these requirements. The bill will apply only to new construction contracts initiated after its effective date and will take effect on July 1, 2025, with the aim of promoting convenient access to water and potentially reducing single-use plastic water bottle consumption.

Education, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0277?ys=2025RS