Wicomico County will soon see a significant change in its roadway regulations as the Maryland Legislature has introduced House Bill 320, aimed at prohibiting roadside solicitations. Introduced on January 10, 2025, by Delegates Beauchamp, Adams, Hartman, Hutchinson, Otto, and Sample–Hughes, the bill seeks to enhance public safety and improve traffic flow by banning individuals from standing in roadways, median dividers, or intersections to solicit money or donations from vehicle occupants.

The bill amends existing transportation laws, extending similar prohibitions already in place in several other counties, including Calvert, Carroll, Charles, Harford, and Washington. By including Wicomico County in this list, lawmakers aim to address concerns about pedestrian safety and the potential hazards posed by roadside solicitations, which can distract drivers and contribute to traffic accidents.

While the bill has garnered support for its focus on safety, it has also sparked debates regarding the implications for individuals who rely on roadside solicitation as a means of income. Advocates for the homeless and low-income communities have raised concerns that such a ban could further marginalize vulnerable populations, limiting their ability to seek assistance.

The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and its passage could have broader implications for how local governments address public safety and social welfare issues. As discussions continue, stakeholders are encouraged to consider alternative solutions that balance safety with the needs of those who may be affected by this legislation.

As Wicomico County prepares for this legislative change, the community will be watching closely to see how it impacts both roadway safety and the livelihoods of its residents.