# Commercial Law (GCL)

## Title 14. Miscellaneous Consumer Protection Provisions

### Subtitle 13. Miscellaneous Provisions

#### Section 14-1319

(a)

  (1) In this section, "gift certificate" means a device constructed of paper, plastic, or any other material that is:

    (i) Sold or issued by a person for a cash value that can be used to purchase goods or services; or

    (ii) Issued as a store credit for returned goods.

  (2) "Gift certificate" does not include:

    (i) A prepaid telephone calling card;

    (ii) A prepaid technical support card;

    (iii) A prepaid card for Internet services;

    (iv) A coupon for discounted goods or services;

    (v) A gift certificate that is distributed to an individual under an awards, loyalty, or promotional program in which the recipient does not give money or value for the gift certificate; or

    (vi) A gift card that:

      (1) Is processed through a national credit or debit card service; and

      (2) May be used to purchase goods or services from multiple unaffiliated sellers of goods or services.

(b) A person may not sell or issue a gift certificate that, within 4 years after the date of purchase, is subject to expiration or a fee or charge of any kind.

(c) Any term or condition concerning expiration or a fee or charge that takes effect more than 4 years after the date of purchase must be printed clearly in at least 10 point type in a visible place on:

  (1) The front or back of the gift certificate;

  (2) A sticker permanently affixed to the gift certificate; or

  (3) An envelope containing the gift certificate.

(d) Unless the change benefits the consumer, a term or condition disclosed under subsection (c) of this section may not be changed after the date of purchase or issuance.

(e) A gift certificate that is sold or issued in violation of this section shall be considered valid and may not be subject to expiration or any fee or charge.

(f) A violation of any provision of this section:

  (1) Is an unfair or deceptive trade practice within the meaning of Title 13 of this article; and

  (2) Is subject to the enforcement and penalty provisions contained in Title 13 of this article, except Sec. 13-411 of this article.

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