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MD HB744

MD HB744
Motor Vehicles - Reckless, Negligent, and Aggressive Driving (Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act)


summary

Introduced
01/27/2025
In Committee
03/27/2025
Crossed Over
03/17/2025
Passed
04/02/2025
Dead
Signed/Enacted/Adopted
05/13/2025

Introduced Session

2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

Altering the penalties and points assessments related to the offenses of reckless, negligent, and aggressive driving; and adding certain motor vehicle offenses as elements that may contribute to charges for reckless or aggressive driving.

AI Summary

This bill modifies Maryland's traffic laws by expanding the definitions and penalties for reckless, negligent, and aggressive driving. Specifically, the bill adds a new provision that defines reckless driving as driving at least 30 miles per hour above the posted speed limit, in addition to existing definitions of driving with wanton disregard for safety. For reckless driving, the penalties remain unchanged at up to 60 days imprisonment, a fine up to $1,000, or both. The bill also alters the definition of aggressive driving by removing the requirement that a driver commit three offenses and instead allowing prosecution for two or more specific traffic violations committed during a single continuous period of driving. These violations include a wide range of infractions such as failure to obey traffic control devices, improper passing, failure to yield right-of-way, and specific speed-related or vehicle operation offenses. The penalty for aggressive driving remains a fine not exceeding $1,000. Additionally, the bill makes some technical changes to the numbering of traffic violation point assessments. The legislation is named the "Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act" and is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Committee Categories

Justice, Transportation and Infrastructure

Sponsors (23)

Last Action

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 446 (on 05/13/2025)

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