On February 12, Associate Policy Director Sarah Sample testified before the Environment and Transportation Committee in support of HB 256 – Motor Vehicles – Speed Monitoring Systems – Safety Corridors (Vulnerable Road User Protection Act of 2026). 

This bill authorizes the State Highway Administration (SHA) to establish a “Safety Corridor” program aimed at reducing serious injuries and fatalities among vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, and individuals using mobility devices in segments of highways identified as high risk.

HB 265 is a thoughtful, data-driven strategy that addresses persistent safety challenges on Maryland’s highways. By pairing targeted enforcement with local flexibility, the legislation strengthens collaboration between state and county governments to improve traffic safety outcomes.

From MACo Testimony: 

HB 256 empowers local governments to use these systems in safety corridors on highways under their own jurisdiction or on State highways if authorized by an SHA permit. This collaborative framework recognizes that local governments are often best positioned to identify roadway conditions, community needs, and appropriate safety interventions, while maintaining consistency with State oversight. Specifically, this flexibility allows counties to tailor safety interventions to the specific needs of their communities.

HB 256’s cross-file, SB 487, was also heard on February 12 in the Judicial Proceedings Committee. Sarah Sample submitted written testimony in support of this bill.

More on MACo’s Advocacy: 

• Follow MACo’s advocacy efforts during the 2026 legislative session on MACo’s Legislative Tracking Database
• Learn more about MACo’s 2026 Legislative Initiatives
• Read more General Assembly News on MACo’s Conduit Street blog