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Bill

SB 866

Public Health - Chain Restaurants - Disclosure and Notice to Customers of Sodium and Added Sugars

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Alonzo Washington

Maryland bill mandates chain restaurants disclose sodium and added sugar content on menus to help consumers make informed nutrition choices.

Senate Conference Committee Appointed (Senators A. Washington, Lam and Mautz)
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Bill Summary · SB 866

Legislative bill overview

SB 866 requires chain restaurants in Maryland to disclose sodium and added sugar content on menus, menu boards, and websites for all food and beverages offered. The bill applies to establishments with 15 or more locations nationally and aims to provide consumers with nutritional information at the point of purchase.

Why is this important

Consumer nutrition choices are often made without readily available information about sodium and added sugar—nutrients linked to hypertension, obesity, and diabetes. Making this information visible at ordering time could influence purchasing decisions and incentivize restaurants to reformulate higher-sodium or higher-sugar items to remain competitive.

Potential points of contention

  • Restaurant compliance costs: Chain restaurants argue implementation requires menu redesigns, staff training, and system updates, with costs potentially passed to consumers
  • Specificity debates: Questions remain about which menu items require disclosure and whether bundled meals need individual component labeling
  • Competitive disadvantage: Some argue national chains face unequal burden compared to independent restaurants, potentially creating market distortions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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