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MarylandSB 03142026 Regular SessionSenate

Courts - Immunity From Liability - Donation of Pet Supplies

Sponsored By: Jeff Waldstreicher (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

Civil Actions and ProceduresAgricultureAdministrative AgenciesAgriculture, Department ofAnimal Shelters and RescuesDomestic Animals -see also- Birds; DogsEquipment -see also- Charging; Med. Equip.; MV Equip; etc.Food -see also- Meat, Poultry, & Seafood; Milk; etc.GiftsInspections -see also- Motor Vehicle InspectionLiabilityNonprofit Organizations

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.

Liability shield for donated pet supplies

Beginning October 1, 2026, people and businesses that donate or dispense pet supplies in good faith to a nonprofit or a government unit are not civilly liable for issues with the item’s nature, age, condition, or packaging. The item must be apparently fit and meet labeling and quality laws. Pet items include commercial feed. This protection does not cover gross negligence or willful and wanton misconduct.

State can inspect donated pet feed

Beginning October 1, 2026, the Maryland Department of Agriculture may inspect donated commercial pet feed for wholesomeness. The Department can set handling procedures for donated feed. This covers animal feed, including pet food, donated to nonprofits. The goal is safer donations for nonprofits and pet owners.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

  • Jeff Waldstreicher

    Democratic • Senate

Cosponsors

There are no cosponsors for this bill.

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 176 • No: 0

House vote • 4/13/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 133 • No: 0 • Other: 7

Senate vote • 2/19/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 43 • No: 0

Actions Timeline

  1. Approved by the Governor - Chapter 464

    5/12/2026

  2. Returned Passed

    4/13/2026Senate

  3. Third Reading Passed (133-0)

    4/13/2026House

  4. Favorable Adopted Second Reading Passed

    4/9/2026House

  5. Favorable Report by Environment and Transportation

    4/8/2026House

  6. Hearing 4/01 at 1:00 p.m.

    3/25/2026House

  7. Referred Environment and Transportation

    2/20/2026House

  8. Third Reading Passed (43-0)

    2/19/2026Senate

  9. Second Reading Passed

    2/17/2026Senate

  10. Favorable Adopted

    2/17/2026Senate

  11. Favorable Report by Judicial Proceedings

    2/16/2026Senate

  12. Hearing 2/03 at 2:00 p.m.

    1/27/2026Senate

  13. Hearing canceled

    1/27/2026Senate

  14. Hearing 2/03 at 1:00 p.m.

    1/23/2026Senate

  15. First Reading Judicial Proceedings

    1/22/2026Senate

Bill Text

  • Enacted

    5/12/2026

    PDF

  • Third Reading

    2/17/2026

    PDF

  • First Reading

    1/22/2026

    PDF

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