MD HB431

Consumer contract provisions that set shorter time limits to bring legal action than Maryland state law allows are declared void, illegal, and against public policy

"Consumer contract" is defined as contracts for sale, lease, or provision of goods or services for personal, family, or household purposes

Exemptions include businesses operating under state agency licenses/franchises, services regulated by the Maryland Public Service Commission, Federal Communications Commission, or Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, and licensed security system services providers

Courts may not enforce illegal shortened limitation periods, and defendants cannot use such provisions as a defense to liability

Takes effect June 1, 2026 and applies only to contracts entered into on or after that date