Maryland 2024 Regular Session

Maryland House Bill HB1186

Introduced

2/8/24

Refer

2/8/24

Caption

Vehicle Laws – Interstate Highways – Interstate Speed Monitoring Systems

Impact

By enacting HB 1186, Maryland will establish a framework for the enforcement of speed limits using automated systems. This legislation will introduce civil penalties for speeding violations captured by the monitoring systems. Additionally, it grants the State Police the authority to issue citations and allows the Motor Vehicle Administration to withhold the registration of vehicles involved in violations. These measures aim to improve road safety and encourage drivers to adhere to speed limits.

Summary

House Bill 1186 mandates the installation and use of interstate speed monitoring systems on each interstate highway in Maryland. The bill outlines the procedures for implementing such systems and specifies the training requirements for law enforcement personnel involved in operating these systems. The goal of the legislation is to enhance road safety and compliance with speed limits on interstate highways.

Contention

The introduction of automated speed monitors may lead to debates regarding privacy concerns and the fairness of using such technology for enforcement. Critics of similar systems often argue that they can disproportionately impact certain demographics and may not consider the circumstances of individual drivers when violations are issued. Proponents, on the other hand, emphasize the potential for decreased accident rates and the efficiency of incorporating technology into traffic law enforcement.