* Warning: This is an unofficial, introductory copy of the bill.
The official copy considered by the City Council is the first reader copy.
Introductory*
City of Baltimore
Council Bill R
(Resolution)
Introduced by: Councilmember Cohen
A Resolution Entitled
A Council Resolution concerning
title
Request for Federal Action - Recall Kia and Hyundai Models Vulnerable to Theft
For the purpose of calling on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to issue a recall of Kia and Hyundai models lacking immobilizer technology that are vulnerable to theft.
body
Recitals
Whereas, the car manufacturers Kia and Hyundai did not install industry-standard engine immobilizer technology on certain models between 2011 and 2022.
Whereas, vehicles with this vulnerability can be easily stolen using a universal serial bus (USB) cable and screwdriver in minutes, and instructional videos on how to do so have spread widely on TikTok and other social media platforms.
Whereas, this vulnerability has allowed youth under the age of 16 and unlicensed drivers to access Kia and Hyundai vehicles and drive recklessly.
Whereas, earlier this year, Kia and Hyundai offered free software updates to address this vulnerability; however, not all impacted vehicles are able to receive these software upgrades.
Whereas, unlike voluntary software upgrades, a recall includes mailed notification to all impacted vehicle owners and the opportunity for a dealer to buy back a vehicle that cannot be repaired.
Whereas, in Maryland, drivers are informed of open vehicle safety recalls through registration renewal notices.
Whereas, while only 15% of registered passenger vehicles in Baltimore City are manufactured by Kia or Hyundai, they account for 68% of stolen vehicles in the City this year alone.
Whereas, as of October 31, 2023, 2,645 Hyundai vehicles and 1,091 Kia vehicles have been stolen in Baltimore City this year.
Now, therefore, be it resolved by the City Council of Baltimore, that the City Council calls on National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to issue a recall of Kia and Hyundai models lacking immobilizer technology that are vulnerable to theft.
And be it further resolved, That a copy of this Resolution be sent to the Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the United States Secretary of Transportation, the President of the United States, the United States Congressional Delegation for Maryland, the Maryland Attorney General, the Maryland Secretary of Transportation, the Administrator of the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration, the Governor, the Baltimore City Delegation to the Maryland Genderal Assembly, the Superintendent of the Maryland State Police, the Police Commissioner, and the Mayor’s Legislative Liaison to the City Council.