Maryland Introduces Bill to Allow Military Surplus Vehicle Registration

You may use the following points in your message:
 

• H.B. 1148 allows for the registration of military surplus vehicles, defined as wheeled, multipurpose vehicles, including trailers, that were manufactured for military use by or under the direction of the United States Armed Forces or the armed forces of another country and subsequently authorized for sale to civilians. 
   
• H.B. 1148 provides that military surplus vehicles may be used in off-highway events, exhibitions, on-highway club activities, parades, and other similar events, for occasional pleasure trips, or to facilitate the sale or maintenance of the vehicles, but not for daily transportation. 
   
• H.B. 1148 requires the applicant for the registration of a military surplus vehicle to provide proof that the vehicle has passed a safety inspection. The inspection process shall be developed by the MVA in consultation with military surplus vehicle owners. 
   
• H.B. 1148 recognizes the important historical and patriotic purpose of these vehicles. 
   
• H.B. 1148 acknowledges that military surplus vehicles are becoming valued collectors’ items among the automotive community.
   

Overview: A version of SEMA model legislation (H.B. 1148) has been introduced in Maryland to allow for the registration of military surplus vehicles. This SAN-supported bill creates a one-time registration fee of $51 for these vehicles, which includes all wheeled, multipurpose vehicles that were manufactured for use in the U.S. or another country’s armed forces and authorized for sale to civilians. A military surplus vehicle currently registered under a different registration class prior to the bill going into effect may continue to be registered under that class. H.B. 1148 currently awaits consideration in the House Judiciary Committee.