Bill > HB1556

This bill, effective October 1, 2026, prohibits advertisements for "sugary beverages"—defined as drinks with added sugars or nonnutritive sweeteners (like aspartame, sucralose, or stevia, but not sugar itself)—on property owned by the state, a county, or a municipality, unless the advertisement prominently displays a warning label. This warning label, which must be in bold type and visually separated from the rest of the ad, states: "WARNING: DRINKING BEVERAGES WITH ADDED SUGAR CAN CONTRIBUTE TO OBESITY, TYPE 2 DIABETES, AND TOOTH DECAY. NOT RECOMMENDED FOR CHILDREN. MARYLAND STATE HEALTH WARNING." The Consumer Protection Division of the Office of the Attorney General can impose a civil penalty of up to $1,000 for each day an advertisement violates this rule, aiming to inform the public about potential health risks associated with consuming sugary drinks.

Health and Social Services

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1556?ys=2026RS