Maryland Senate Bill SB200

Maryland 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/24
• Refer: 1/10/24

Caption

Counties - Construction of Sidewalks and Crosswalks - Safe Alternative Routes to Public Schools

Impact

The impact of SB 200 is substantial, as it places a clear obligation on county governing bodies to actively pursue the construction of necessary infrastructure to support safe routes for students. By updating existing regulations, the bill prevents counties from neglecting the safety of schoolchildren and compels them to implement strategies that will mitigate risks in pedestrian travel. This change may also enhance community involvement around school safety and infrastructure planning.

Summary

Senate Bill 200 aims to enhance the safety of public school students by requiring counties to construct sidewalks and crosswalks that serve as safe alternative routes to schools. The bill mandates that each county board of education must annually prepare and publish a report identifying these safe pathways for students who are ineligible for transportation services based on their distance from school. This initiative is intended to ensure that every student has access to safe routes when commuting to and from school, promoting not only student safety but also encouraging walking and biking as viable modes of transportation.

Contention

Despite its positive intentions, SB 200 may face contention surrounding the financial implications of constructing new sidewalks and crosswalks, especially in budget-constrained counties. Officials may debate the prioritization of these funds against other pressing needs, such as educational resources or public services. Furthermore, if alterations to roads outside of county jurisdiction are necessary, collaboration with external governmental entities could present logistical challenges, potentially delaying or complicating projects designed to comply with the new law.