MD HB1377

Repeals the existing ban on outdoor cannabis advertising (billboards, building signs, etc.) and replaces it with a prohibition on advertisements within 500 feet of substance use treatment facilities, primary/secondary schools, licensed child care centers, playgrounds, recreational centers, libraries, and public parks

Expands restrictions on minor-targeted advertising to prohibit packaging resembling commercial candy, snacks, or beverages; images of food, candy, or fruit; cartoons, animals, neon colors, celebrities, or mascots; and claims about health or physical benefits

Creates a voluntary pre-approval process allowing cannabis licensees to submit advertisements to the Maryland Cannabis Administration for an advisory opinion on compliance, with a 30-day review deadline

Maintains existing requirements that electronic/broadcast advertising must reach audiences where at least 85% are 21 or older, and that cannabis websites use age-verification mechanisms

Effective date: October 1, 2025