Bill > SB44

This bill modifies Maryland's transportation law to require mandatory court appearance for drivers charged with reckless or negligent driving that contributes to a fatal accident. Specifically, the bill stipulates that such drivers must appear in court and cannot prepay their fine, which could previously be handled through a standard traffic violation process. However, the law provides judicial flexibility by allowing a court to waive the mandatory appearance requirement "for good cause shown" after initially setting a court date. This means that while the default is a required court appearance, judges retain discretion to modify this requirement if they determine there are compelling reasons to do so. The bill defines reckless driving as operating a motor vehicle with "wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property" and negligent driving as driving in a "careless or imprudent manner" that endangers property or human life. If convicted of reckless driving, the maximum fine remains $1,000. The legislation is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and is nicknamed "Sherry and Christian's Law," suggesting it was likely inspired by a specific tragic incident involving reckless driving.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0044?ys=2025RS