In 2026, PharmedOut supported the introduction of two Maryland state bills. HB1133 and HB1134, both sponsored by Delegate Deni Taveras, address issues related to pharmaceutical industry influence and, if enacted, will lead to improved health outcomes for all Marylanders. PharmedOut testified in support of both bills on March 12, 2026. STAT and Fierce Pharma covered HB1133, the bill targeting transparency in disease awareness campaigns. 

HB1133 - Public Health - Drug Manufacturer-Funded Disease Awareness Campaigns - Registration and Required Disclosure

         Industry-funded patient advocacy groups push industry viewpoints – or simply stay silent on drug safety, drug costs, and other issues vital to patients. This bill requires drug companies to disclose funding to patient advocacy groups regarding disease awareness campaigns and to reveal the name of the drug associated with each campaign. PharmedOut testimony for HB1133 can be streamed here.

HB1134 - Pharmaceutical Drugs and Devices - Gifts to Health Care Professionals - Prohibition

           Samples are one of industry’s greatest marketing tools and are often omitted from other states’ legislation on gift bans to prescribers. Promoting transparency and rational prescribing, this bill prohibits pharmaceutical and medical device companies from providing gifts, including drug samples, valued at more than $50 per year, to prescribers. PharmedOut testimony for HB1134 can be streamed here.