Bill > H4736

This bill establishes new legal provisions to address street takeovers, a dangerous vehicular activity where groups of vehicles deliberately obstruct or disrupt traffic. The first section adds penalties for recklessly operating a vehicle and hindering the movement of other vehicles with a group of two or more vehicles, which can result in up to two and a half years in a house of correction and a fine of up to $2,000. Additionally, the bill allows for the forfeiture of motor vehicles or recreational vehicles used in such violations. The forfeiture process includes specific legal procedures, such as notification to vehicle owners, court hearings, and provisions for handling jointly owned vehicles. Any proceeds from vehicle sales would be deposited into the local municipality's general fund and could be used for law enforcement, equipment, or grant matching purposes. The second section of the bill adds a provision that makes it a criminal offense for disorderly persons or peace disturbers to be masked, punishable by up to one year in a house of correction or a fine of up to $500, or both. These provisions aim to discourage dangerous street takeover activities and provide law enforcement with additional tools to prevent and penalize such behaviors.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4736