Bill > SB710

This bill modifies Maryland's criminal law regarding criminally negligent driving by creating a specific offense for driving a motor vehicle in a criminally negligent manner. The bill defines criminal negligence as a situation where a driver should be aware, but fails to perceive, that their conduct creates a substantial and unjustifiable risk to the safety of persons or property, and where this failure represents a gross deviation from the standard of care a reasonable person would exercise. Importantly, the bill distinguishes between criminal negligence and ordinary negligence, explicitly stating that driving in a merely negligent manner (as defined in the Transportation Article) does not constitute a violation of this law. If convicted of driving criminally negligently, a person would face a misdemeanor charge with potential penalties of up to 6 months imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000, or both. The bill, named the Sergeant Patrick Keep Act, will take effect on October 1, 2025, and differs from the previous law by removing references to vessels and focusing specifically on motor vehicle operation.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0710?ys=2025RS