# Oct 5, 2026 - PS Committee Worksession


**Body:** MoCoCouncilMD
**Date:** October 05, 2026
**Jurisdiction:** SLED

**Tags:** Public Safety, Emergency Response


The Montgomery County Council Public Safety Committee held a worksession on October 5, 2026, covering Bill 27-26 on unlawful racing and street takeovers and a briefing on the Police Department’s drones-as-first-responders program. The committee advanced Bill 27-26 as amended, with two members voting in favor and one abstaining. Amendments discussed included increasing the maximum fine to $5,000 and clarifying language on prohibited conduct; members also discussed protecting constitutionally protected First Amendment activity. The bill addresses racing and takeover activity, including people who organize, facilitate, or bet on it. No contract award or procurement decision was identified.

Police officials reported that the drone program has expanded to seven-day operations, covers about 84 square miles, and responded to roughly 2,400 calls for service so far in 2026. They described its dock-based system, operational and privacy safeguards, and preliminary findings from an independently funded research trial. Seven professional staff positions are authorized, with three filled and four remaining positions expected to be announced; possible future coverage expansion would depend on funding and further evaluation. No specific budget allocation or purchase approval was made at the meeting.

**Source:** MoCoCouncilMD