New laws you should know

by Melanie Romano, 6^th District Community Services Officer, Montgomery County Police Department

The Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act
The Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act went into effect on Oct. 1, 2025. The law strengthens penalties for reckless, negligent and aggressive driving.

This Act is named after Sgt. Patrick Kepp, a Montgomery County police officer who lost both of his legs in the line of duty in 2023 after being struck by a speeding repeat offender. His story highlighted the dangers posed by reckless drivers and the need for stronger laws to change such behavior. The Act reflects Maryland’s commitment to improving roadway safety and holding dangerous drivers accountable.

Key law updates under the Kepp Act include:
Reckless Driving: Driving 30 miles per hour (mph) or more over the speed limit now qualifies as reckless driving. Penalties include up to 60 days in jail, a $1,000 fine and six points on a driver's license.

Negligent Driving: Penalties increased to a fine of up to $750 and two points, with additional consequences if a crash is involved.

Aggressive Driving: Occurs when a driver commits three or more traffic violations in a single, continuous period of driving, such as speeding, tailgating, unsafe passing or failing to yield. Penalties include fines up to $1,000 and license points.

New automated speed camera fines
On Oct. 1, 2025, a new graduated fine schedule went into effect to support the county’s Vision Zero commitment. Drivers exceeding the posted speed limit by 16 mph or more past a speed camera will receive higher fines based on the travel speed. The base fine of $40 for speeds between 12 and 15 mph over the speed limit will not change.

Fines increase by speed: $70 for 16 to 19 mph over, $120 for 20 to 29 mph over, $230 for 30 to 39 mph over and $425 for 40+ mph over.

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