Maryland Kids Code
In force Maryland · In force Oct 1, 2024 · no upcoming deadlines
Deadlines
| Date | What happens | When |
|---|---|---|
| Apr 1, 20265 months ago | Data protection impact assessments due | 6 months ago |
| Oct 1, 20241 year ago | Takes effect | 24 months ago |
| May 9, 20242 years ago | Approved by Governor | 2.4 years ago |
Summaries for reference, not legal advice. Check the official text.
What it does
Online products reasonably likely to be accessed by children must be designed in the best interests of children, use high-privacy defaults and avoid certain data collection and profiling. Covered entities must complete data protection impact assessments.
- Who it applies to
- Businesses offering online products reasonably likely to be accessed by children under 18 in Maryland that meet the Maryland business thresholds.
- Penalties
- Civil penalties enforced by the AG; see statute.
- Enforced by
- Maryland Attorney General (Consumer Protection Division)
- Official name
- Maryland Age-Appropriate Design Code Act (Maryland Kids Code, HB 603)
- Citation
- 2024 Md. Laws ch. 461
- Topics
- children, privacy, online-safety
Verified 2026-09-25
Research notes
Challenged in NetChoice v. Brown (D. Md., No. 1:25-cv-00322); case in discovery as of a 2026-09-23 order.
Related
Questions about Maryland Kids Code
- What are the Maryland Kids Code compliance deadlines?
- May 9, 2024: Approved by Governor. Oct 1, 2024: Takes effect. Apr 1, 2026: Data protection impact assessments due.
- When does Maryland Kids Code take effect?
- Maryland Kids Code took effect on Oct 1, 2024.
- Who does Maryland Kids Code apply to?
- Businesses offering online products reasonably likely to be accessed by children under 18 in Maryland that meet the Maryland business thresholds.
- What are the penalties under Maryland Kids Code?
- Civil penalties enforced by the AG; see statute.