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MD SB866

Bill

Status

Introduced

2/6/2026

Primary Sponsor

Alonzo Washington

Click for details

Origin

Senate

2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Chain restaurants with 20+ locations must display warning icons next to menu items containing high sodium (1,150+ mg) or high added sugars (25+ mg) per serving, effective January 1, 2028

  • Maryland Department of Health must adopt regulations establishing the warning icons and minimum size requirements by January 1, 2027, and conduct a continuing education campaign throughout 2027

  • Required health warnings at point of selection must state that high sodium is linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke, while high added sugars may increase risk of type 2 diabetes, weight gain, and tooth decay

  • Violations are subject to civil penalties up to $5,000 per day but are exempt from criminal penalties that apply to other food service facility violations

  • Department must report to the General Assembly by July 1, 2032 on the impact of the requirements, including menu item reformulations and changes in consumer behavior

Legislative Description

Public Health - Chain Restaurants - Sodium and Added Sugars Warning Icons

Disclosure

Last Action

Hearing 2/25 at 1:00 p.m.

2/11/2026

Committee Referrals

Finance2/6/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available