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In a move to protect consumers from deceptive advertising practices, Maryland lawmakers have passed new legislation aimed at strengthening consumer protection laws. The new laws, which were signed into effect on March 23, 2026, come in response to a rise in complaints about misleading advertisements and fraudulent marketing tactics.One of the key provisions of the new legislation is the requirement for businesses to clearly disclose all material terms and conditions of their offers in advertisements. This includes information about pricing, fees, and any limitations or restrictions that may apply. Additionally, businesses will be required to provide consumers with accurate and up-to-date information about their products and services, including any risks or potential negative consequences.Another important aspect of the new laws is the prohibition of false or misleading statements in advertising. Businesses will no longer be able to make unsubstantiated claims about the benefits or effectiveness of their products or services. Any statements made in advertisements must be supported by reliable evidence or data.Furthermore, the new legislation also includes measures to crack down on deceptive pricing schemes, such as bait-and-switch tactics or hidden fees. Businesses will be required to clearly display the total cost of their products or services, including all taxes and fees, so that consumers can make informed purchasing decisions.Maryland Attorney General, Sarah Johnson, praised the new laws as a significant step forward in protecting consumers from unscrupulous businesses. “These new regulations will help level the playing field for consumers and ensure that businesses are held accountable for their advertising practices,” she said in a statement.Consumer advocacy groups have also lauded the new legislation, noting that it will help prevent consumers from falling victim to deceptive advertising tactics. “Consumers deserve to have accurate and transparent information when making purchasing decisions,” said Lisa Thompson, a spokesperson for the Maryland Consumer Rights Coalition.Overall, the new laws represent a major victory for consumer protection in Maryland and serve as a reminder to businesses that honesty and transparency in advertising are non-negotiable. With these strengthened regulations in place, consumers can feel more confident that they are making well-informed choices when shopping in the state.