Bill > HB686

This bill, known as Zoey's Law, modifies the penalties for attempting to elude a police officer when that attempt results in the death of another person. Specifically, it reclassifies such a violation as a felony. For a first offense, the maximum prison sentence is reduced from 10 years to 5 years, with a fine of up to $5,000 also possible. For a second or subsequent offense, the maximum imprisonment remains up to 10 years, with a fine not exceeding $5,000, or both. The bill also clarifies that a "visual or audible signal" from a police officer includes signals by hand, voice, emergency light, or siren, and defines when a driver is prohibited from attempting to elude a police officer, including when the officer is in uniform and displaying their badge, or when the officer is in a marked police vehicle.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0686?ys=2026RS