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Bill > HB375


MD HB375

MD HB375
Bicycles, Play Vehicles, and Unicycles - Authorizations and Requirements (Jay's Law)


summary

Introduced
01/16/2025
In Committee
03/26/2025
Crossed Over
02/27/2025
Passed
04/02/2025
Dead
Signed/Enacted/Adopted
05/13/2025

Introduced Session

2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

Authorizing a person to ride a bicycle, play vehicle, or unicycle on a sidewalk or sidewalk area unless prohibited by local ordinance; and requiring a person riding a bicycle, play vehicle, or unicycle on a sidewalk or sidewalk area or in or through a crosswalk to yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian or a person using an electric personal assistive mobility device.

AI Summary

This bill modifies Maryland transportation laws to clarify the rights and responsibilities of people riding bicycles, play vehicles, and unicycles on sidewalks and in crosswalks. Under the new law, individuals are generally permitted to ride these devices on sidewalks unless a local ordinance specifically prohibits it. The bill introduces a key requirement that riders must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and people using electric personal assistive mobility devices when on sidewalks or in crosswalks. This means that bicyclists, play vehicle riders, and unicyclists must give priority and space to walking pedestrians and those using mobility assistance devices like electric scooters or wheelchairs. The legislation also clarifies that riders on these devices have similar rights and restrictions as pedestrians when operating on sidewalks or in crosswalks, such as obeying traffic control signals at intersections. The bill, nicknamed "Jay's Law," will take effect on October 1, 2025, providing local jurisdictions and residents time to understand and prepare for the new regulations.

Committee Categories

Justice, Transportation and Infrastructure

Sponsors (21)

Last Action

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 558 (on 05/13/2025)

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