MD SB824

Amends Transportation Article Section 15-305(e)(2) to modify requirements for vehicle manufacturers or distributors to obtain dealer licenses in Maryland

Clarifies that eligible manufacturers/distributors must produce only battery-electric or nonfossil-fuel burning vehicles (changed from "deals in electric" vehicles)

Strengthens independence requirements: applicants cannot be owned by, controlled by, affiliated with, or be a subsidiary, division, brand, joint venture, or successor to any manufacturer/distributor that has franchised dealers

Adds new requirement that manufacturers/distributors seeking a dealer license must demonstrate compliance with all requirements to the satisfaction of the Administration

Maintains cap of no more than four dealer licenses that may be issued to manufacturers/distributors under this provision; effective October 1, 2026