Maryland Senate Bill SB43

Maryland 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/12/22
• Refer: 1/12/22
• Report Pass: 2/8/22

Caption

Anne Arundel County - Speed Monitoring Systems - Maryland Route 648 (Baltimore-Annapolis Boulevard)

Impact

The passage of SB43 will lead to adjustments in how Anne Arundel County addresses traffic management and pedestrian safety. By enabling speed monitoring systems, it creates a mechanism for local authorities to reduce speeding through financial penalties. The bill directs any excess fines collected after administrative costs are recovered to be used for public safety purposes, thereby reinforcing a commitment to enhancing community welfare through targeted investments in safety measures. Overall, this legislative move is seen as a proactive approach to mitigate risks associated with high-speed traffic in populated regions.

Summary

Senate Bill 43 focuses on the implementation of speed monitoring systems specifically on Maryland Route 648 (Baltimore–Annapolis Boulevard) in Anne Arundel County. The bill sets out the framework for the placement and use of these systems, mandating that local jurisdictions adhere to certain signage requirements and use the fines collected exclusively for public safety improvements related to speed reduction and pedestrian safety measures along the designated roadway. This aims to improve safety in areas with a history of speeding issues, particularly around school zones and local communities where pedestrian traffic is significant.

Contention

Discussion surrounding SB43 included concerns about the balance of enforcement and community trust. Supporters believe that speed monitoring systems are essential for enhancing road safety and reducing accidents. However, critics argue that such measures might lead to an overly punitive environment where local residents feel targeted by automated enforcement rather than address exhaustively the actual safety issues. The bill's provisions requiring clear signage and public awareness before activation of the speed monitoring systems aim to mitigate these concerns, though debates over potential misuse and the perceived commercialization of traffic enforcement remain a point of contention.