The Maryland Kids Code, formally the Maryland Age-Appropriate Design Code Act (HB 603, Chapter 461 of 2024), has been in effect since October 1, 2024, and unlike California’s version it is currently enforceable.
What the Maryland Kids Code Requires
Covered businesses whose online products are reasonably likely to be accessed by children under 18 must configure default high privacy settings, complete data protection impact assessments, with assessments due by April 1, 2026 for existing products, and refrain from profiling children by default, selling their data, or processing their personal information for targeted advertising. That last piece is the marketing hook: behaviorally targeted ads aimed at Maryland minors are effectively prohibited for covered services.
Litigation Status and Enforcement
A NetChoice constitutional challenge is ongoing, but no injunction has issued, and the court denied dismissal in November 2025. The Maryland Attorney General enforces the law under the Consumer Protection Act, with civil penalties available per violation. Ad campaigns and app experiences reaching Maryland teens need contextual rather than behavioral targeting.
Source: Maryland General Assembly: HB 603 (Chapter 461 of 2024)
Report a violation: If you believe a business is violating this law, you can file a complaint with the Maryland Attorney General Consumer Protection Division.
