Consumer Protection - Agricultural Equipment Warranties

SB 990 requires farmers and other consumers who purchase agricultural equipment to provide written notice (via certified mail) to manufacturers about equipment defects during the warranty period. It mandates manufacturers to repair issues within 30 days at no cost to the consumer, even after the warranty expires. If repairs fail, the bill gives consumers the option to get a replacement or a refund (minus a reasonable deduction for use and damage). This applies to new farming equipment like tractors and harvesters, and violations would be enforced under Maryland’s Consumer Protection Act.