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Bill

Bill

HB 371

Prince George's County - Speed Monitoring Systems - Maryland Route 5 PG 308-25

2025 Regular Session

HB 371 permits Prince George's County to deploy automated speed cameras on Maryland Route 5 for traffic enforcement and revenue collection.

Hearing 3/25 at 2:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 371

Legislative bill overview

HB 371 authorizes Prince George's County to install and operate speed monitoring systems (automated speed cameras) on Maryland Route 5 within the county. The bill allows the county to deploy this traffic enforcement technology to monitor vehicle speeds and issue citations to violators.

Why is this important

Automated speed enforcement can reduce traffic accidents and fatalities on high-risk roads, but it also generates revenue through fines and raises concerns about surveillance and enforcement equity. Route 5 is a major thoroughfare in Prince George's County, making this decision potentially impactful for thousands of daily commuters.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue generation vs. public safety motivation – Critics question whether speed cameras prioritize safety or create a revenue stream, as fines directly benefit the government
  • Privacy and surveillance concerns – Automated systems continuously photograph vehicles and drivers, raising civil liberties questions about mass monitoring
  • Enforcement equity – Speed cameras may disproportionately impact lower-income drivers who cannot afford fines or live in areas with higher camera density, creating potential fairness issues

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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