Subcommittee approves bill allowing local expansion of residential speed cameras

The Motor Vehicle and Transportation Subcommittee on Feb. 12 passed House Bill 55, an enabling law allowing local jurisdictions across Maryland to use speed‑monitoring systems in residential districts.

Patrick Tracy summarized the bill as an expansion of current local programs (which in three counties cover school zones and some residential districts) to allow similar local programs statewide. Tracy emphasized the bill is enabling, not mandatory.

Members discussed revenue direction and noted existing law directs camera revenue toward highway and pedestrian safety uses; Patrick Tracy confirmed that current statutory directions for revenue remain in effect. Several members expressed support for enabling locals to make their own decisions instead of requiring repeated legislation as each county asks to adopt programs.

Delegate Allen moved the bill, a member seconded, and a voice vote followed. The chair stated the bill "passes the subcommittee." The transcript captures verbal "aye" responses but does not record a roll‑call tally.

The bill will proceed from the subcommittee to the next step in the legislative process.