Bill > HB777

This bill, also known as the "Hot Cars Act," mandates that starting October 1, 2029, any new motor vehicle manufactured or assembled at least one year after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) establishes federal standards for rear occupant alert systems, and which is intended for registration in Maryland as a passenger, truck, or multipurpose vehicle, must be equipped with such a system. A rear occupant alert system is defined as a technology designed to notify the driver to check the back seats after the vehicle's engine or motor has been turned off, aiming to prevent children or pets from being accidentally left behind in hot vehicles. The bill prohibits the sale or offering for sale of non-compliant vehicles and prevents the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration from registering any vehicle sold in violation of these requirements, though enforcement will be suspended if a federal agency determines it would jeopardize federal funding for the state.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0777?ys=2026RS