Proposals to put speed cameras on many roads and highways in Maryland are making their way slowly through both House and Senate. Opponents have been unable to muster enough votes to stall what they see as money-grubbing infringements on due process for drivers.

The Senate on Tuesday passed a measure that would allow speed-monitoring devices anywhere in Prince George’s County, except on Routes 50, 301 and the Washington Beltway. Sponsored by the county’s senators, the measure was prompted by a late-night drag racing incident that killed eight people on Route 210 Feb. 16.

The Prince George’s measure would apply to roads with speed limits up to 55 mph. After complaints that many motorists passing through the county on superhighways could be nabbed by the cameras, Senate Republican Leader David Brinkley was able to tack on an amendment exempting Routes 50 and 301 from the bill.

“We’re taking another step down the road” of Big Brother government, complained Sen. John Astle, an Anne Arundel County Democrat who said he has regularly opposed the cameras enforcing traffic laws. Under these laws, tickets are issued to the owner of the car, and there is no possibility for a trial before a judge.

This story continues below
Advertisement

“There’s no conclusive study that this improves traffic safety,” said Sen. Alex Mooney, a Frederick County Republican. But “just imagine the money” the cameras are going to raise for the county government.

Sen. Anthony Muse, chairman of the Prince George’s senators, downplayed the problems.

“You won’t get tickets if you obey the speed limit,” Muse said.

Gov. Martin O’Malley has introduced measures at the request of county leaders to permit speed cameras in highway work zones, school zones and other areas approved by the counties. Local officials will get to decide whether or not to use speed cameras to catch lead-footed motorists on neighborhood roads.

House and Senate have both passed versions of the governor’s legislation.

If approved by local jurisdictions, violations would carry fines up to $40, but no points. Volunteer rescue workers en route to an emergency would be exempt.

llazarick@baltimoreexaminer.com

jmalarkey@baltimoreexaminer.com