MD HB1469

Imposes a 2 cents per ounce tax on distributors selling sugary beverages, syrups, and powders to Maryland retailers or consumers, beginning July 1, 2026, with annual inflation adjustments starting July 1, 2027

Exempts natural fruit and vegetable juices, milk, infant formula, beverages for medical use, unflavored water, and sales to federal/tribal governments or for out-of-state consumption

Distributes tax revenue with the first $189 million annually going to a new Healthy School Meals for All Fund, the next $50 million to the Child Care Scholarship Program, and the remainder to the State's General Fund

Creates the Healthy School Meals for All Fund as a special nonlapsing fund to support the State Free Feeding Program and Maryland Meals for Achievement In-Classroom Breakfast Program

Requires distributors to register with the Comptroller and file monthly returns by the 25th of each month, with penalties including fines up to $5,000 or imprisonment up to 5 years for willful failure to file