Maryland 2022 Regular Session

Maryland House Bill HB130

Introduced
1/12/22  

Caption

Motor Vehicles – Required Stops – Secondary Enforcement

Impact

The enactment of HB 130 will have a significant impact on how traffic violations are managed in Maryland. By limiting enforcement of stop violations to secondary actions, the bill aims to reduce instances of policing that might be perceived as overreach or targeting of drivers when no other violation is present. This change in policy can lead to fewer traffic stops, which is likely to be welcomed by civil rights advocates. Additionally, it may provide greater discretion for law enforcement in determining the necessity of stopping a vehicle based solely on traffic signal compliance.

Summary

House Bill 130 is legislation focused on altering the enforcement of traffic laws relating to required stops at flashing lights and signs. The bill allows police officers to enforce provisions of Maryland Vehicle Law regarding required stops only as a secondary action, unless certain exceptions apply. This means that officers can only issue citations for violations of these traffic laws if they have already detained a driver for another suspected violation of the law. In cases where an officer observes reckless behavior, such as failing to yield or slow down, primary enforcement can still be applied.

Contention

Despite its intended benefits, the bill has been met with contention from various stakeholders. Critics argue that restricting police enforcement to secondary actions may embolden reckless driving behaviors, compromising public safety. The potential for increased accidents due to non-compliance at stop signals is a concern raised by safety advocates. Furthermore, there are apprehensions regarding how the bill may affect the overall deterrence of traffic violations, as it provides a loophole for drivers who might otherwise adhere to stop regulations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MD SB292

Motor Vehicles - Secondary Enforcement and Admissibility of Evidence

MD HB635

Motor Vehicles - Secondary Enforcement and Admissibility of Evidence

MD AB1713

Vehicles: required stops: bicycles.

MD AB122

Vehicles: required stops: bicycles.

MD AB73

Vehicles: required stops: bicycles.

MD SB73

Require Bicycle Stops For Safety

MD SB01377

An Act Implementing The Recommendations Of The Department Of Transportation And Concerning Transportation Network Companies And Drivers, The Projection Of A Laser At An Aircraft Or Flight Path, Automated Traffic Enforcement Safety Devices, Small Harbor Improvement Projects, The Connecticut Public Transportation Council, Bus Public Transportation Services And The Naming Of Certain Roads And Bridges.

MD SB00904

An Act Implementing The Recommendations Of The Department Of Transportation And Concerning State Parkways, The Connecticut Airport Authority, A Transportation Carbon Dioxide Reduction Target, A Tree And Vegetation Management Plan, Motor Vehicle Noise, The Zero-emission Truck Voucher Program, Street Racing, Emergency Lights And The Naming Of Certain Roads And Bridges.

MD HB05330

An Act Implementing The Recommendations Of The Department Of Transportation And Concerning Capital Projects, Notice Of Proposed Fair And Service Changes, The Connecticut Airport Authority, Automated Traffic Safety Enforcement, Road Safety Audits, Parking Authorities, A Shore Line East Report And The Submission Of Reports And Test Results Regarding Impaired Driving.

MD HB1049

Transportation matters.

Similar Bills

CA AB122

Vehicles: required stops: bicycles.

CA AB1826

Traffic violation fees.

CA SB493

Vehicles: right-turn violations.

CA SB1132

Vehicles: right turn violations.

IL SB0277

VEH CD–INTERSECTION SAFETY

NM SB73

Require Bicycle Stops For Safety

CA AB1713

Vehicles: required stops: bicycles.

CA AB2859

Traffic-actuated signals: bicycles.