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Maryland lawmakers hear emotional appeals to pass ‘Mason’s Law’ after 13‑year‑old’s death
Summary
Family members, first responders and the bill sponsor urged the House Environment and Transportation Committee to pass HB 34, "Mason’s Law," requiring safety grates or remediation of hazardous storm‑drain inlets after testimony that 13‑year‑old Mason Kearns was sucked into an unprotected drain in Mount Airy.
Delegate Chris Farrick Boucher, sponsor of HB 34, told the House Environment and Transportation Committee that the bill is aimed at preventing future deaths after the July 31, 2025 flash flood that took 13‑year‑old Mason Kearns’ life. "During a flash flood in Mount Airy, Maryland, Mason was swept into an unsecured storm drain...This is not just a tragic accident, it is a preventable one," Boucher said.
Mason’s mother, Erica Kearns, and other family members described the emotional toll and…
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