Maryland Vehicle Emissions Inspection Fees Set to Rise Amid Budget Deficit
Starting July 1, the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) will increase vehicle emissions inspection fees from $14 to a maximum of $30, as part of a broader legislative package aimed at addressing a significant budget deficit. This increase will require a regulatory process before implementation.
The Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program (VEIP) mandates that vehicle owners undergo testing every two years to help reduce air pollution. Maryland’s Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld noted that the current fee, unchanged since 1997, is necessary to bolster the transportation trust fund, which has supported the Maryland Department of Transportation since 1971.
The additional revenue generated from this increase is earmarked for major transportation projects, including improvements to Interstate 81 and U.S. 15, state officials indicated. However, the change has drawn criticism from some lawmakers. Republican Delegate Ryan Nawrocki expressed concern on social media, suggesting that the fee hike unfairly penalizes drivers of gas vehicles.
In related news, the Maryland Board of Public Works is set to approve a new contract with Envirotest Corp. for managing VEIP stations and self-service kiosks across 13 of Maryland’s 23 counties and Baltimore City.
This article will be updated as further developments occur. For additional news tips, contact Irit Skulnik at iskulnik@baltsun.com or follow her on X at @irit_skulnik.
Originally Published: June 7, 2025, at 7:24 AM EDT.
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