Maryland House Bill 712 was introduced and referred to committee on Feb 7th. It has since been scheduled for a hearing on the 22nd of February. This bill is a farm equipment specific bill that would require manufacturers to provide parts – among other things – to independent repair providers at the most favorable cost provided to authorized repair providers. It has 17 cosponsors, 14 republicans and three democrats.
This bill would create price fixing for parts which would alter the business model of dealers and is noticeably absent from the Deere-Farm Bureau MOU. Because of this, the association will be reaching out to the sponsors to notify them of our opposition. Please review our position statement here.
NAEDA plans on testifying in-person opposing this bill on Feb 22nd, and we would appreciate any willing dealers to join us. We will keep you updated on the progress of the bill and any developments.