H.B. 468 - Summary

• Requires vehicle inspection certificates to verify that motorcycles, mopeds, and motor vehicles are not equipped with non-compliant mufflers or exhaust systems under sections 291-24 or 291-24.5.

• Elevates violations of noisy muffler and exhaust system laws from traffic infractions to petty misdemeanors, with penalties of up to $500 in fines or 30 days imprisonment.

• Suspends, revokes, or denies permit renewal for official inspection stations upon a third or subsequent willful violation of muffler/exhaust system inspection rules within 18 months.

• Expands the prohibited practices for motor vehicle repair to include repairing or installing mufflers or exhaust systems that fail to comply with state noise standards.

• Clarifies that offering mufflers for sale (in addition to using, altering, or installing them) is prohibited if they increase vehicle noise above factory specifications.