Expansion of panhandling ban to be sought

Three state lawmakers who pushed through a ban on roadside panhandling in Anne Arundel County this year said yesterday that they will argue for a similar prohibition in Prince George's County during the General Assembly next year. Sen. James C. Rosapepe and Dels. Barbara A. Frush and Joseline Pena-Melnyk, Democrats who represent western Anne Arundel and northern Prince George's, announced their intention at a news conference in Laurel with County Executive John R. Leopold that was held to discuss Anne Arundel's ban. Since that ban took effect Oct. 1, officers have made an arrest and issued two citations for roadside soliciting, said Leopold, a Republican.