Maryland State Wire

Chris Papst, a reporter for WBFF Fox45 News, said that Maryland residents will face increased costs for vehicle emissions tests. He mentioned that newer vehicles, rather than older ones, are now required to undergo testing. This information was shared on the social media platform X.

"On July 1, Marylanders will pay MORE for vehicle emissions tests. Now, it costs $14. It could go to $30," said Papst. "Cars newer than 25 yrs must pass emissions. Many older cars do not. Isn't it the older cars that need emissions tests? Why do we test new cars? They rarely fail."

Fox45 News reported that beginning July 1, 2025, Maryland plans to double its vehicle emissions inspection fee from $14 to $30 as part of the state's budget-balancing measures. The report highlighted that testing modern vehicles, particularly those less than 25 years old, is often unnecessary since they rarely fail emissions tests. It was noted that this fee increase disproportionately affects average consumers without significantly enhancing environmental outcomes. Additionally, former President Trump's Congressional Review Act (CRA) action provides some relief by preventing unfounded electric vehicle mandates; however, the fee increase continues to place a burden on local drivers.

According to the MocoShow, environmental inspection programs typically mandate emissions checks every two years for newer vehicles. Many advocates question why vehicles under 25 years old are included in these tests when they seldom fail modern emissions standards. They argue that the practice serves more as a revenue generator than an environmental safeguard and suggest that exemptions or reduced requirements could better align policy with actual emissions risks. This discussion underscores broader concerns about cost-effective regulation and fairness in enforcement.

Chris Papst is recognized as a national award-winning investigative reporter based in Washington, D.C., and is also a best-selling author. His investigative work has influenced state-level policy changes and new law development and has led to criminal investigations. Papst has received multiple Emmys and awards from National Headliner, Edward R. Murrow, and the Associated Press. His work has been featured in Congressional hearings and on major news networks such as Fox News, CNN, MSNBC, and NBC Nightly News. He is also the author of "Capital Murder" and "Devolution," according to his website.