Annapolis, MD: Maryland lawmakers are introducing a bill to regulate the tourism industry after multiple deaths occurred during last year’s Hajj pilgrimage.
The proposed legislation, sponsored by Del. Adrian Boafo (D-Prince George’s) and Sen. Dawn Gile (D-Anne Arundel), seeks to prevent unregulated travel agencies from exploiting pilgrims by requiring proper registration and financial accountability.
Key Facts:
- Three Marylanders died during Hajj 2023 after an unregistered tour agency failed to provide proper visas and accommodations.
- New bill requires travel agencies to register with the Maryland Labor Department and post surety bonds between $10,000–$50,000.
- Bill named ‘Don’t You Worry Act’ in honor of Alieu and Isatu Wurie, a couple who died in extreme heat during the pilgrimage.
The legislation was inspired by The Washington Post’s investigation into unauthorized Hajj tour operators that charge exorbitant fees but fail to provide necessary services.
The Wurie family, prominent members of Prince George’s County, were among those affected—paying over $22,000 for a trip that ultimately led to their deaths due to lack of medical access, cooling stations, and basic provisions.
Boafo emphasized the urgency of the bill, stating, “We have a responsibility when things like this happen in our state, and we realize that there’s holes in policy, to fix them.”
The bill would ensure that customers can verify a travel agency’s legal standing before booking international trips.
For the Wurie children, the bill offers a way to honor their parents and protect others.
The grieving son of the victims, 39-year-old Alieu Wurie Jr., said, “When you’re grieving and you say, ‘Everything happens for a reason,’ this is one of the things that’s going to happen that may be able to save a lot of people on a larger scale, and maybe they had to die for that.”
The ‘Don’t You Worry Act’ has received backing from Governor Wes Moore (D), who expressed support for greater consumer protection measures.
It is set for its first hearing on Wednesday, with the Wurie family scheduled to testify in favor of its passage.
This case highlights the risks of unregulated tourism, particularly in religious pilgrimages where travelers depend on agencies for safety.
If passed, the bill would bring Maryland in line with states like Washington, which already impose strict oversight on travel agencies handling international trips.
Do You Know?
Hajj is one of the largest annual religious pilgrimages in the world, with over 1.8 million attendees in 2023.
Due to extreme conditions, including temperatures exceeding 120°F, Saudi authorities have implemented strict regulations for licensed tour operators. (Source: Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah)
Key Terms:
Hajj: An annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, mandatory for Muslims who can afford it and are physically able.
Surety Bond: A financial guarantee that businesses post to ensure compliance with legal requirements.
Cooling Stations: Temporary shelters with air conditioning and water, crucial for protecting pilgrims from extreme heat.