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HB 996

Public Health - Phenibut Consumer Protection Act (JT Alvey Phenibut Consumer Protection Act)

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Tiffany Alston and 22 co-sponsors

Maryland restricts phenibut sales to ages 21+, requires warning labels, limits quantities, and prohibits intoxication marketing to address growing addiction and health risks from this unregulated synthetic drug.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 704
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 996

Legislative bill overview

HB 996 establishes regulatory controls over phenibut, a synthetic compound sold as a dietary supplement that produces effects similar to alcohol and benzodiazepines. The bill restricts sales to adults 21 and older, requires warning labels, limits purchase quantities, and prohibits marketing claims about medical benefits or intoxication effects.

Why is this important

Phenibut has become increasingly available in convenience stores and online without age restrictions or safety warnings, despite producing addiction, withdrawal symptoms, and serious health complications including seizures and cognitive impairment. This legislation addresses a public health gap by creating the first state-level consumer protections for a substance that mimics controlled drugs while operating in a regulatory gray area.

Potential points of contention

  • Definitional scope: Debate over whether the regulatory framework adequately captures all phenibut products or whether manufacturers can circumvent restrictions through product reformulation or marketing loopholes
  • Enforcement burden: Questions about how Maryland agencies will monitor compliance across online retailers and interstate commerce, particularly for e-commerce platforms
  • Dietary supplement industry resistance: Push-back from supplement manufacturers and retailers on sales restrictions, quantity limits, and labeling requirements that increase compliance costs

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

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