Bill > HB1395

This bill establishes the Agricultural Equipment Warranty Enforcement Act, which outlines specific procedures and remedies for consumers experiencing issues with new agricultural equipment, defined as self-propelled vehicles primarily used for farming, excluding certain off-road vehicles, ATVs, special mobile equipment, and smaller equipment like lawn tractors or mowers. To make a warranty claim, a consumer must first provide written notice to the manufacturer or factory branch via certified mail, and dealers must inform the manufacturer of any such notice received. The manufacturer, factory branch, or their authorized dealer then has an opportunity to correct the defect within 30 days at no charge, even if the warranty period has expired. If, after a reasonable number of repair attempts (presumed to be four or more for the same issue, or if the equipment is out of service for 30 days during its season of use), the defect substantially impairs the equipment's use and market value, the consumer can opt to have the equipment replaced with comparable equipment or receive a full refund of the purchase price, minus a reasonable allowance for use and damage not related to the defect. The bill also specifies that warranty periods and out-of-service days can be extended due to events like war or natural disasters, and that a consumer's failure to provide proper written notice and an opportunity to repair may prevent them from using the presumption of a reasonable number of attempts. Violations of this act are considered unfair trade practices and may result in additional damages if the manufacturer acted in bad faith. This new law will apply to agricultural equipment sold on or after January 1, 2026, and will take effect on October 1, 2026.

Business and Industry

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1395?ys=2026RS