Transportation

HB 593 amends Maryland's criminal law to specifically prohibit unauthorized actions intended to disrupt critical infrastructure or public safety answering points. It makes it a crime to intentionally access, copy data from, or possess access codes for systems like power grids, emergency call centers, or transportation networks with the intent to impair their function. The bill defines "critical infrastructure" as systems vital to public security, health, safety, or utilities, and explicitly includes ransomware attacks as a prohibited act. This law directly affects individuals who interfere with these essential systems, imposing criminal penalties for intentional disruption.

HB 55 modifies Maryland's vehicle laws to expand where speed monitoring systems (like photo radar) can be used in residential areas. It updates the definition of "residential district" to require properties along highways to be mainly residential for at least 300 feet and not business areas. The bill specifically authorizes these systems on highways in residential districts with 35 mph limits, school zones, certain roads in Prince George’s County, and high-risk crash locations identified in safety plans. Local governments must first approve their use via public hearing and local law. This affects residents in designated areas and requires new local authorization for speed monitoring enforcement.

HB 177 allows bicycle, play vehicle, and unicycle riders to enter an intersection on a red traffic signal when facing a pedestrian "walk" signal, provided they yield to vehicles and pedestrians already in the intersection. It directly affects cyclists, children's ride-on toys (like scooters or ride-on cars), and unicycles operating at crosswalks. The bill clarifies that these riders have pedestrian-like rights in crosswalks and on sidewalks (while still yielding to pedestrians), and removes certain existing traffic restrictions. It takes effect October 1, 2026, and does not change general traffic signal requirements for other road users.