MD HB277

Beginning October 1, 2025, at least one water bottle filling station must be installed at each location where a drinking fountain is required in new construction under the International Plumbing Code or state/local law

Renovations that include replacing a drinking fountain must replace it with a water bottle filling station or combined station/fountain; renovations requiring new drinking fountains must include bottle filling stations

Water bottle filling stations are defined as plumbing fixtures designed for filling containers at least 10 inches in height, and interior stations must include water filters and cooling systems

Exceptions apply to commercial/industrial buildings when only replacing a drinking fountain with no other renovations, or when potable water is available from another source such as a kitchen

The Maryland Department of Labor must adopt implementing regulations; the law applies prospectively and does not affect construction contracts signed before the effective date