Statement From Montgomery County Councilmember Will Jawando Regarding Maryland Attorney General Opinion on the Safety and Traffic Equity In Policing (“STEP”) Act

For Immediate Release: Wednesday, October 4, 2023

From the Office of Councilmember Will Jawando

Montgomery County Councilmember Will Jawando released the following statement related to the Maryland Attorney General’s Opinion on the Safety and Traffic Equity in Policing (“STEP”) Act.

“I introduced the Safety and Traffic Equity in Policing (“STEP”) Act to address racial disparities in traffic enforcement and to free up our police department to focus on enforcement of traffic violations that are the key drivers of serious injuries and fatalities, for example, speeding, reckless driving, DUI and driving without seatbelts.

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“I have been grateful for the thoughtful engagement on this bill from the community and key stakeholders. Residents have shared poignant stories about their experiences with traffic stops and the lived reality for many communities of color when it comes to the impact and frequency of traffic stops. Many groups and individuals recognize the shared goals and have offered changes to make the bill stronger. There has been significant engagement with academic and legal experts to utilize the best practices and implementation strategies from other jurisdictions. All of the engagement is welcome and a healthy sign for our democracy.

“The STEP Act is consistent with our County’s commitment to Vision Zero. Notably, the Vision Zero Network and the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA), among numerous others, have expressed support for the STEP Act.

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“The County Council requested an opinion from the Maryland Attorney General regarding the STEP Act, which I supported and agreed was necessary for this legislation. The Attorney General’s opinion concluded that a portion of the bill is preempted, namely designating certain traffic offenses as secondary offenses. The prohibition of consent searches and data collection provisions, however, are not preempted by state law. I am grateful for the Attorney General’s comprehensive opinion that provides clarity for moving forward.

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“I plan to proceed with the consent search and data provisions in the bill and I urge our leaders in the Montgomery County General Assembly Delegation to review the opinion, and consider improvements at the state level that further the goals of the STEP Act. We must address racial disparities in traffic enforcement and focus on enforcement of traffic violations that are the key drivers of serious injuries and fatalities.

“I welcome the opportunity for more dialogue with our law enforcement to improve data sharing and reporting throughout the County. The STEP Act is our chance to lead on racial equity and make our roads safer for all.”

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Release ID: 23-320
Media Contact: 240-777-7972
Categories: Will Jawando

For updates and link to press release, see here: http://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=44096