Rep. Terry Baker

Maddy summaryHB 1008 prohibits Maryland state and local governments from imposing a vehicle-miles-traveled (VMT) tax, mileage-based user fees, or tolls based on GPS tracking. It also bans requiring private vehicle owners to install devices that track mileage for tax reporting. The bill specifically repeals provisions allowing VMT taxes and adds new restrictions in tax and transportation laws, effective October 2025. It does not affect existing reciprocal fuel tax agreements under current law. This directly impacts state/local authorities and private vehicle owners by preventing new mileage-based fees or tracking requirements.

Maddy summaryHB 843 requires car manufacturers to provide independent mechanics and vehicle owners with diagnostic tools, repair manuals, and vehicle data (like telematics information) under fair terms. It specifically mandates that manufacturers install open data platforms in vehicles with connected systems, allowing independent repair shops to access vehicle diagnostics without relying solely on dealership services. The law applies to most passenger vehicles but excludes heavy-duty trucks over 14,000 pounds. It also requires manufacturers to give new owners a document explaining their rights to repair their vehicles and access to vehicle data. The bill creates new definitions and standards for "fair and reasonable" access to repair information, without forcing manufacturers to share trade secrets.

Maddy summaryHB 842 requires farm equipment manufacturers to provide independent repair shops and farm owners with necessary documentation (like manuals and diagnostics), updates, and part numbers for repairing farm equipment. It prohibits manufacturers from using contracts to avoid this requirement or withholding part numbers, and mandates that access to parts and information must be offered at fair, reasonable costs comparable to what they provide to their own dealers. The law directly affects farmers who maintain their own equipment and independent repair businesses that serve them. It updates Maryland law to establish clear standards for repair access under a new "Farm Equipment Repair" subtitle.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the Allegany Regional Recreational Economic Development Authority in Allegany County to help build and manage local sports and tourism facilities. The authority will be led by a seven-member board including representatives from the county commission, local universities, city mayors, the school board, and a resident appointed by the state legislature. Funded by the county, cities, and state, the group can hire staff and accept donated services to oversee projects like athletic fields and indoor sports centers. Members serve without pay but can be reimbursed for travel expenses, and the authority must report its progress to state officials every year starting in 2025. The law is set to expire on June 30, 2029, unless renewed by the General Assembly.