On January 22, Associate Policy Director Sarah Sample testified before the Judicial Proceedings Committee in support of SB 118 – Motor Vehicles – Speed Monitoring Systems – Penalties with amendments. This bill increases the penalties that can be imposed for a violation recorded by a speed monitoring device.
More frequently than ever, horrific traffic accidents have claimed the lives or good health of Maryland residents and public servants. Not only are those who are using the roadways endangered, but so are the many county employees working on and near roadways every day, including local law enforcement officers, construction workers, surveyors, public works officials, and school bus drivers. If the rise in reckless driving is left unaddressed, these essential county workers will continue to have their lives put at risk just for doing their jobs.
Counties believe increasing the speed camera fines to more accurately represent the severity of a violation may serve the public interest, but would offer one amendment to SB 118. While the new fees may prove necessary in some situations to change behavior, the current bill language makes the new penalties mandatory in set amounts, and does not allow any local discretion concerning first-time offenses, new drivers, and residents with other physical, mental, and financial challenges that could indicate a mitigating circumstance.
SB 118’s cross-file, HB 182, was heard on February 21 in the House Environment and Transportation Committee. Sarah Sample testified in support of this bill with amendments.
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