Bill > S291

This bill introduces new requirements for vehicle registrations related to safety recalls by establishing that the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) must check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database for open safety recalls before issuing or renewing vehicle registrations. When an open recall is identified, the RMV must notify the vehicle owner in writing, describing the recall and explaining that repairs can typically be made by an authorized dealer at no cost. Under the new law, vehicle owners will be required to obtain necessary repairs for open safety recalls before their next registration renewal, and the RMV can deny registration renewal for vehicles with unaddressed recalls. However, the bill provides several exemptions to this requirement, such as when replacement parts are unavailable, when the manufacturer has not made a remedy available, or when there are extenuating circumstances preventing repair. The exemptions ensure that vehicle owners are not unfairly penalized in situations beyond their control. The bill aims to improve vehicle safety by encouraging prompt repair of safety-related recalls and providing vehicle owners with clear information about potential safety issues with their vehicles. Importantly, the bill does not alter existing manufacturer or dealer liability under common law.

Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S291