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Bill

SB 101

Wicomico County - Vehicle Laws - Prohibition on Roadway Solicitations

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mary Beth Carozza and 1 co-sponsor

Wicomico County bill prohibits roadside solicitations from vehicle occupants, with penalties for violations and exceptions for established businesses and charitable activities.

Motion Special Order until Later This Session (Delegate Young) Adopted
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Bill Summary · SB 101

Legislative bill overview

SB 101 prohibits individuals from soliciting money, goods, or services from occupants of vehicles on roadways in Wicomico County, Maryland. The bill establishes penalties for violations and creates exceptions for certain activities like charitable fundraising, political campaigns, and commercial transactions conducted at established businesses.

Why is this important

This bill addresses concerns about roadside panhandling and solicitation, which local officials argue creates traffic safety hazards, obstructs traffic flow, and creates uncomfortable situations for drivers. The policy reflects a broader national trend of municipalities restricting street-level solicitation, balancing public safety against First Amendment concerns and the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness or economic hardship.

Potential points of contention

  • First Amendment implications: Courts have frequently struck down broad solicitation bans as violations of free speech rights; the bill's exceptions may be insufficient to withstand legal challenges
  • Impact on vulnerable populations: The law could disproportionately criminalize individuals experiencing homelessness or poverty who rely on informal income sources
  • Enforcement disparities: Police discretion in enforcement could lead to selective application targeting certain groups or neighborhoods, raising equity concerns
  • Vague definitions: Terms like "solicitation" and "roadway" may be ambiguous enough to create confusion about what conduct is actually prohibited

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

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