It’s not quite an annual tradition, but once a vehicle turns six years old, Maryland drivers have to take their cars to a vehicle emissions testing facility every couple of years and pay $30 for a vehicle emissions test.

The test is designed to look for extra sources of air pollution. Most cars that were made in 1995 or earlier are exempt, as are motorcycles. When the price went up a few years ago, there was grumbling. Now, one state lawmaker argues that it’s time to get rid of it.

Maryland State Del. Christopher Eric Bouchat told WTOP the test is now outdated and nothing more than a cash grab.

“We need to completely eliminate the vehicle emissions testing program,” Bouchat said. “It served its purpose, but unfortunately, with most things the government, even after you serve their purpo

See Full Page