The committee approved amendments to House Bill 816 that cut the private-passenger assessment cap to 1%, authorize an affordability program at the Maryland Automobile Insurance Fund, and conform to a senate-added sunset in June 2029; members questioned the program's operating losses and likely assessments.

The Maryland Auto Insurance Fund told the House appropriations subcommittee that policy counts fell sharply after 2024, driving lower earned premiums and projected net losses even as the fund considers operational changes and a pilot six‑month policy term to reduce down payments.

Legislators propose bill to enhance Maryland Auto's financial stability and affordability studies

Insurance rates vary significantly by ZIP code due to congestion and accident rates, experts say.