The Senate just gave final approval to a House bill that would shift the burden to the driver who receives a ticket to request a trial in traffic court.
The bill, which passed unanimously, was a top priority for thye state's police chiefs because they believe it will save them millions of dollars in overtime paid to officers who go to traffic court for the trials of defendants who don't show up.
Once implemented, the bill will change the all-too-familiar routine for those who receive traffic tickets so that they don't receive and automatic court date. Rather, they will have to check off a box on the ticket and send it to the court requesting a date.
The measure brings Maryland into conformity with the overwhelming majority of states in their traffic court procedures.