Here Are Some New Laws Taking Effect On Jan. 1, 2025
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Maryland will start the new year with more than a dozen new laws. Here’s a breakdown of some of the statutes slated to effect on January 1, 2025:
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Maryland Road Worker Protection Act
The Maryland Road Worker Protection Act expands the use of speed cameras in work zones and raises penalties for traffic violations. Those speeding in a work zone could face fines ranging from $60 to $500, depending on how fast you were going. Fines also double when workers are present. It comes after the tragic I-695 crash, where a driver traveling over 100 miles per hour spun out of control, hitting and killing six highway construction workers.
Opioid treatment changes
There are new protocols for treating opioid-related emergencies. New regulations require hospitals to refer overdose patients to appropriate community providers and peer support professionals for continued treatment.
Housing Expansion and Affordability Act
The Housing Expansion and Affordability Act aims to address housing supply issues. The law bars local jurisdictions from denying the placement of certain manufactured homes in zoning districts that allow single-family residential use, allowing for increased density for select housing projects.
Election judge recruitment
Poll workers were in high demand this past election cycle. New laws will require the State Board of Elections to develop a marketing campaign to recruit more election judges. County employees serving as judges must also receive mandated administrative leave and compensation.
Hearing aids for adults
Health insurers, nonprofit health service plans and health maintenance organizations must provide coverage for adult hearing aids. There may be a limit of $1,400 per hearing aid for every 36 months. The hearing-impaired adult may choose a more expensive hearing aid and pay the difference.
For all laws taking effect on New Year’s Day, click here.
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