MD HB1048

Chain restaurants with 20 or more locations must display warning icons on menus next to items containing 1,150mg or more of sodium or 25mg or more of added sugars, starting January 1, 2028

Maryland Department of Health must adopt regulations establishing the warning icons and minimum size requirements by January 1, 2027, and publish compliance guidance on its website

Required health warning text at point of selection must explain that flagged items exceed half the daily recommended limit and describe associated health risks (high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke for sodium; type 2 diabetes, weight gain, tooth decay for added sugars)

Department must administer a continuing education campaign during 2027 and submit a report to the General Assembly by July 1, 2032 reviewing the impact on menu reformulation and consumer behavior

Violations are exempt from criminal penalties but subject to civil penalties up to $5,000 per day; the Act takes effect July 1, 2026