Bill > HB1345

This bill establishes the Agricultural Equipment Warranty Enforcement Act to protect consumers who purchase agricultural equipment (defined as self-propelled vehicles primarily used in farming). The legislation requires consumers to provide written notice by certified mail to manufacturers or factory branches if their equipment does not conform to warranties during the warranty period, which is either the stated warranty term or the first year after original delivery. Manufacturers must then correct any nonconformity, defect, or condition at no charge within 30 days. If a manufacturer cannot repair a substantial defect after a reasonable number of attempts (defined as four repair attempts or 30 cumulative days of service downtime), the consumer can choose to either receive a replacement vehicle or a full refund minus a reasonable allowance for use and non-normal damage. The bill also provides that violations of these warranty provisions are considered unfair trade practices, and courts may award up to $10,000 in damages if a manufacturer is found to have acted in bad faith. Importantly, this law will only apply to agricultural equipment purchased after its effective date of October 1, 2025, and does not limit other existing consumer rights or remedies.

Business and Industry

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1345?ys=2025RS