Certain businesses in Prince George’s County may have to step up their security soon.A bill called the Late Night Safety Plan is making its way through the County Council right now - but there are some objections before it passes.

Councilmember Krystal Oriadha, who represents District 7, introduced the bill back in March. 

This week, it passed through a committee and is on its way to a public hearing before a final vote.

The goal, Oriadha said, is to combat a crime wave that is making the entire community feel unsafe.

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As part of the bill, businesses have to come up with a safety plan if they're open between the hours of 12 a.m. and 4 a.m. – the original legislation had the timeframe from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

That could include anything from extra lighting and surveillance cameras to staff training and adding on-site security.

They then have to submit that plan to local law enforcement for review and approval and renew it every three years.

And if they don't - they cannot operate during those overnight hours.

The legislation mandates that the plans will be individualized for each business.

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In mid-September, neighboring Montgomery County started requiring businesses to have a late-night safety plan, as well. The difference is that theirs applies to businesses between the hours of 2 a.m. and 5 a.m.

The Maryland Restaurant Association and the Maryland Retailers Alliance have both asked Prince George's County Council to amend the current bill to those same times.

"We definitely understand the intention to make sure that both customers and employees at these businesses are provided with a safe environment overnight," said Sarah Price with the Maryland Retailers Alliance.

But, she said, they are hoping the council will be more transparent and provide more clarity to businesses about expectations moving forward.

She added that many of the businesses that are open overnight are meeting a need within the community.

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