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Committee considers signage approach to warn youth about energy drinks and supplements
Summary
HS1 for HB394 would require Division of Public Health‑issued signage at point of sale warning that energy drinks and caffeinated dietary supplements are not recommended for children and certain at‑risk groups; pediatric healthcare advocates supported the educational approach while beverage trade groups opposed the science‑based distinction.
Senator Townsend presented House Substitute 1 for HB394, which targets modern energy drinks and caffeinated dietary supplements marketed to young people. The substitute would direct the Division of Public Health to make signage available (rather than require age‑verification scanning) advising that these products are not recommended for children, individuals sensitive to caffeine, or people who are pregnant or nursing, and require dealers to display the sign publicly near the products.
Public‑health witnesses, including Kristen Dwire of Nemours Children’s Healthcare, testified in support, saying the educational signage is consistent with pediatric recommendations and helps families make informed choices. The Maryland‑Delaware‑D.C. Beverage Association (Tiffany Harvey) opposed the substitute, arguing the bill draws a non‑scientific distinction between caffeine sources (coffee/tea vs. manufactured products) and risks confusing consumers and unfairly spotlighting certain products.
Committee members heard the two sides and did not take final action at the hearing.
