Ask Reggi Your Question Now

Reggi is the free generative AI assistance for regulatory compliance
Ask a Question

Can I offer contests that involve social media promotions in Maryland? What are the requirements?

Social Media Promotions in Maryland

Based on the provided context documents, there are no specific regulations in Maryland that prohibit offering contests that involve social media promotions. However, there are regulations that govern on-premises promotions, charity promotions, radio station promotions, and retail promotions [1.1].

If you plan to offer contests that involve social media promotions, you should ensure that they comply with the regulations governing promotions in Maryland. For example, if you plan to offer a promotion that involves a licensed retailer, you should ensure that the promotion is approved by the Bureau and that you file a report with the Bureau listing all proposed events [1.1].

Additionally, if you plan to provide prizes or giveaways, you should ensure that the total number of cumulative items or prizes for any given promotion does not exceed 50 percent of the maximum capacity of the licensed retailer’s premises as determined by the Fire Marshal, and that the unit cost of any one item or prize does not exceed $10 [1.1].

However, it is important to note that unsanctioned contests are prohibited in Maryland [2.1]. Therefore, if you plan to offer a contest, you should ensure that it is sanctioned by the Commission.

Requirements for Promotions in Maryland

As mentioned earlier, promotions in Maryland are governed by regulations that cover on-premises promotions, charity promotions, radio station promotions, and retail promotions [1.1].

Some of the requirements for promotions in Maryland include:

  • A brand owner or supplier, third party, or wholesaler acting as a brand owner’s agent may sponsor, organize, or participate in up to 24 promotional activities in a calendar year on behalf of the same licensed retailer [1.1].
  • A brand owner may provide brand identifiable prizes or give-away items to be used at approved on-premises promotions if certain conditions are met [1.1].
  • A licensed retailer may sponsor promotional activities on the retailer’s own premises, but all expenses related to the promotion shall be paid by the licensed retailer [1.1].
  • A person or entity who engages in on-premises promotional activities as authorized by the regulation shall file a report on forms provided by the Bureau [1.1].

These are just some of the requirements for promotions in Maryland. If you plan to offer a promotion in the state, you should review the relevant regulations to ensure that you comply with all requirements.

Conclusion

There are no specific regulations in Maryland that prohibit offering contests that involve social media promotions. However, you should ensure that your promotions comply with the regulations governing promotions in the state. If you plan to offer a promotion in Maryland, you should review the relevant regulations to ensure that you comply with all requirements. Additionally, you should ensure that your contest is sanctioned by the Commission to avoid any violations [2.1].

Source(s):
Jurisdiction

Maryland