Maryland Senate Bill SB981

Maryland 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/18/22
• Refer: 2/18/22

Caption

Pedestrians - Kent Island Drawbridge - Fishing Prohibition

Impact

If enacted, this bill will add a new provision to the Maryland Transportation Code, specifically Article 21–507. This addition will create a clear legal framework to deter fishing activities that may obstruct pedestrian traffic or lead to accidents on the drawbridge. The prohibition is aimed at safeguarding both individuals and the infrastructure, enhancing the overall safety for users of the bridge. It indicates the government’s commitment to regulating and managing public spaces effectively.

Summary

Senate Bill 981, titled the Fishing Prohibition at Kent Island Drawbridge Act, seeks to establish a strict prohibition against pedestrians catching or attempting to catch fish on or under the Maryland Route 18 Kent Island Drawbridge, located over the Kent Narrows in Queen Anne’s County. This legislative measure emphasizes the importance of maintaining public safety and the structural integrity of the bridge, while also addressing concerns about pedestrian activities in potentially hazardous areas.

Contention

The primary points of contention surrounding SB981 may stem from concerns about the implications of restricting fishing and how it may affect local recreational activities. Advocates for the bill argue that it is necessary for public safety, while opponents might raise issues regarding the limitations imposed on a traditional leisure activity, reflecting a tension between safety regulations and individual freedoms in public spaces. The conversation around this bill highlights the need to balance public safety with recreational opportunities.