HB0212/SB0155 - Noise Abatement Violations not to be used for insurance purposes - Effective July 1, 2024

BULLETIN 24-16 Date: June 7, 2024 To: All Motor Vehicle Insurance Companies (Personal and Commercial including RRG’s), Rating Organizations, Producers, Agents, and the Maryland Automobile Insurance Fund Re: HB0212 / SB0155 - Noise Abatement Violations not to be used for insurance purposes – Effective July 1, 2024 ______________________________________________________________________________ The Maryland Insurance Administration (the “Administration”) is issuing this Bulletin to assure that all carriers authorized to write motor vehicle insurance in the State are aware of the passage of House Bill 0212 / Senate Bill 0155, which was enacted in the 2024 legislative session and will become effective on July 1, 2024. House Bill 0212 / Senate Bill 0155 amends Section 22-612 of the Transportation Article to create a pilot program authorizing the use of noise abatement monitoring systems in Montgomery County and Prince George's County to enforce certain motor vehicle noise requirements. This legislation creates civil penalties for vehicle owners that violate motor vehicle noise requirements. Section 22-612(I)(4) provides that such civil violations may not be used in the issuance or renewal of motor vehicle insurance coverage. The penalties may not be considered by insurers in their rates, rules, forms, or underwriting decisions. All questions concerning this Advisory should be directed to Property and Casualty Associate Commissioner William Fawcett on 410.468.2353 or at william.fawcett@maryland.gov. KATHLEEN A. BIRRANE Commissioner By: Signature on Original William Fawcett Associate Commissioner Property & Casualty KATHLEEN A. BIRRANE Commissioner KORY BOONE Acting Deputy Commissioner WILLIAM FAWCETT Associate Commissioner Property & Casualty WES MOORE Governor ARUNA MILLER Lt. Governor 200 St. Paul Place, Suite 2700, Baltimore, Maryland 21202 Direct Dial: 410-468-2000 Fax: 410-468-2020 Email: william.fawcett@maryland.gov 1-800-492-6116 TTY: 1-800-735-2258 www.insurance.maryland.gov