Bill Positions

Bill Number: SB 858

Bill Title: Commercial Law - Maryland Gasohol and Gasoline Products Marketing Act - Marketing Premises

Bill Sponsor(s): Senator Pugh, et al.

Subject: Commercial Law

Committee: FIN

Bill Summary: This bill would have prohibited a gasoline producer or refiner from transferring or assigning an interest in a gas station without offering a right of first refusal to a dealer leasing the premises.

History: In 2008 SB 604 received an unfavorable report from the Finance Committee. In 2009 SB 858 died without a vote in the Finance Committee.

Chamber Position: Oppose

Position Summary: This bill was an unwarranted intrusion of government into the commercial transactions of private parties. Among the rights of property ownership is the right to convey the property. By attempting to force owners of gasoline stations to offer a right of first refusal to tenants, this bill would have inhibited the property owners from obtaining market value for their properties, or bundling multiple properties for sale as a package. For these reasons, the Maryland Chamber opposed this bill.

Position Statement: Click here (pdf)

Chamber Staff: Allyson Black

General Assembly: Click here to view the bill on the Maryland General Assembly's website.