MD HB1556

Advertisements for sugary beverages on State, county, or municipal property must include a warning label stating: "WARNING: Drinking beverages with added sugar can contribute to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and tooth decay. Not recommended for children. Maryland State Health Warning."

"Sugary beverage" is defined as any carbonated or noncarbonated drink intended for human consumption containing added sugars or nonnutritive sweeteners (including aspartame, sucralose, stevia, and other artificial sweeteners).

Warning labels must be in bold typeface, printed in a visually separated box, and highly visible to viewers.

The Consumer Protection Division of the Attorney General's Office may impose civil penalties up to $1,000 per violation, with each day a non-compliant advertisement remains posted counting as a separate violation.

Effective date: October 1, 2026.