# Business Regulation (GBR)

## Title 16. Cigarettes

### Subtitle 6. Fire Safety Performance Standard for Cigarettes

#### Section 16-604

** CONTINGENCY - IN EFFECT - CHAPTER 497 OF 2007 **

(a) Cigarettes that have been certified in accordance with Sec. 16-603 of this subtitle shall be marked in accordance with the requirements of this section.

(b) The marking shall:

  (1) consist of:

    (i) any marking in use and approved for sale in New York under the New York fire safety standards for cigarettes; or

    (ii) the letters "FSC" to signify Fire Standards Compliant;

  (2) be in a font of at least 8 point type; and

  (3) be permanently printed, stamped, engraved, or embossed on the package at or near the area of the UPC code, if present.

(c) A manufacturer may propose an alternative marking that:

  (1) meets the criteria under subsection (b)(2) and (3) of this section; and

  (2) consists of a visible combination of alphanumeric or symbolic characters or text permanently stamped, engraved, embossed, or printed:

    (i) in conjunction with the UPC code; or

    (ii) on the cigarette pack or cellophane wrap.

(d)

  (1) A manufacturer shall request approval of a proposed marking from the Executive Director.

  (2)

    (i) The Executive Director shall approve a marking specified in subsection (b)(1) of this section.

    (ii) A marking is deemed approved if the Executive Director fails to act within 10 business days after receiving a request for approval.

  (3) A manufacturer may not use a modified marking unless the modification has been approved in accordance with this section.

  (4) A manufacturer shall use only one marking on all brands that the manufacturer markets.

  (5) A marking or modified marking approved by the Executive Director shall be applied uniformly on all brands marketed and on all packages, including packs, cartons, and cases marketed by that manufacturer.

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Md. Code Ann., Bus. Reg. (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)