Sponsors: require front‑plate mounting brackets at sale to boost compliance; dealers push back

Delegate Jolie Plakovickar told the committee HB1166 would make it easier for new vehicle owners to comply with Maryland’s law requiring front and rear plates by obligating dealers to install a mounting bracket at point of sale. The sponsor said front plates aid investigations, help toll collection and simply reduce an avoidable misdemeanor for drivers.

Committee members questioned enforcement mechanisms, how MVA would use any dealer‑provided data and whether the bill would create paperwork or customer relations problems. The sponsor said house amendments removed a required monthly reporting obligation; the current draft contemplates a flagging mechanism in MVA records if dealers indicate a buyer refused installation, and MVA would clear the flag once a front plate is attached.

The Maryland Automobile Dealers Association president testified in opposition, saying the vast majority of dealers already install front brackets, that California’s long‑standing law has not demonstrably increased compliance and that the bill would create unnecessary paperwork and customer service friction. Dealers also warned that customers who buy in Maryland but take vehicles out of state complicate pre‑installation practices.

The committee heard the testimony and asked for more data on compliance rates and whether neighboring states’ single‑plate rules affect dealer behavior. No vote was taken.