The Association of Global Automakers has thrown its support behind a Maryland state bill that would ban the sale or installation of counterfeit or substandard airbags in a vehicle.

If the bill becomes law, a violation leading to a person’s injury or death would be considered a felony that’s subject to a prison sentence of five years or less, a fine of $5,000 or less, or both. Violations not linked to injury or death would be considered misdemeanors subject to a prison sentence of no more than a year, a fine not exceeding $1,000, or both.

The association said it has worked closely with bill sponsor Delegate Keiffer Mitchell Jr.’s office to provide technical expertise on the issue.

“Counterfeit replacement airbags are a serious safety problem,” said Mike Stanton, Global Automakers’ president and CEO. “We want to do everything we can to ensure that consumers' vehicles are repaired with airbags that operate as intended, meeting strict manufacturer and government standards.”

The bill was referred to the Maryland House Environmental Matters Committee. The committee will hold a hearing on the legislation on March 1. Global Automakers will testify at the hearing.