On Monday, leaders announced new legislation to create safety plans for certain businesses open late at night in Montgomery County.
The new bill would require businesses open between 12-6 a.m. in areas with higher calls for police service to develop safety plans approved by the Montgomery County Police Department. Requirements could include things like security personnel, cameras and exterior lighting.
Draft legislation will be introduced to the county council.
Montgomery County Police Chief Marcus Jones said police will work with businesses.
“We want individuals who are living in Downtown Silver Spring to have peace when they go to sleep at night,” Jones said during a press conference at the Silver Spring Civic Building.
Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich said businesses who refuse to comply will get a daily fine, and possibly stricter penalties, not to exclude being shut down.
Dr. Earl Stoddard, Montgomery County Assistant Chief Administrative Officer, said MCPD would have a six-month period to set regulations for council approval, and then there would be a period of time for businesses to come into compliance with the new law.
Jones said requirements depend on factors like layout and size of the business. He said terms will be figured out once the legislation is established.
