Maryland lawmakers hear emotional appeals to pass ‘Mason’s Law’ after 13‑year‑old’s death
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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 urged lawmakers to require safety grates or other remedies on storm‑drain inlets that pose a public hazard. "Please do this for Mason and for everyone in our state," Erica Kearns said in testimony.
Mount Airy volunteer lieutenant Eddie Godwin described rescue efforts and the trauma experienced by first responders. "I was able to grab a hold of Mason, but due to the water pressure...I was unable to remove him," Godwin said, urging the committee to act to prevent similar tragedies.
Sponsor Boucher said he is open to amendments that ease municipal implementation, such as phased timelines and prioritizing the highest‑risk culverts and drains. Several members pressed about the bill’s application on private property and the practical cost to municipalities; Boucher emphasized local flexibility and the possibility of a subcommittee amendment process to refine timelines and relief for smaller jurisdictions.
The hearing included multiple supportive witnesses — family members, first responders and community advocates — and several committee members recommended follow‑up discussions in subcommittee to craft implementation details and identify funding or timelines that reduce unfunded mandates for local governments.
The sponsor asked the committee for a favorable report on HB 34. The record shows the committee concluded the bill hearing after testimony and questions; the next steps are subcommittee amendment negotiations and possible return to the full committee for a vote.
