Residents and safety advocates urge stronger enforcement of proposed street takeover ban

The County Council heard public testimony July 14 on Bill 27-26, a proposed amendment to motor vehicles and traffic rules that would ban unlawful racing and street takeovers on public highways and roadways. The bill would define prohibited behaviors and establish penalties; a public safety committee work session is scheduled for Oct. 5, 2026.

John Tsang, chair of the Maryland Coalition for Roadway Safety (Safe Roads Maryland), said he strongly supports the county bill but asked the council to avoid weakening existing state sanctions. "We respectfully encourage the council to strengthen this bill wherever possible or at the very least ensure it doesn't weaken the sanctions already established in the Maryland law," Tsang said, and added that enforcement capacity will be essential.

Mindy Baden, chair of the transportation committee of the Greater Olney Civic Association and a member of Safe Roads Maryland, described losing her son in a traffic incident and argued the county bill expands state law and should include parking lots and private property. "Every person involved with these dangerous street takeovers needs to face very tough penalties," she said, urging the council to pass the measure to protect pedestrians and neighbors.

Other residents who testified, including John Becker and Meredith McCain, described localized incidents of takeovers and broader concerns about growing disregard for road safety. Several speakers suggested the council consider expanding the bill’s scope to private property and stressed that enforcement will determine its effectiveness.

The public hearing concluded with the council noting the scheduled committee work session and guidance for submitting additional materials by Sept. 28, 2026.