Connecticut House Bill HB05413

Connecticut 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/2/18
• Refer: 3/2/18

Caption

An Act Concerning The Alvin W. Penn Racial Profile Prohibition Act.

Impact

The enactment of HB 05413 will amend existing laws governing police conduct during traffic stops, requiring agencies to provide data that reflects the demographics of drivers stopped. This shift is expected to contribute to a more transparent system that can identify potential biases in policing practices. By collecting detailed records, the bill proposes to create accountability and ensure law enforcement agencies adhere to non-discriminatory practices, aligning with broader discussions about civil rights and policing reforms.

Summary

House Bill 05413 addresses the Alvin W. Penn Racial Profile Prohibition Act by introducing measures intended to enhance the oversight and accountability of law enforcement during traffic stops. The bill mandates police departments to record specific information whenever a traffic stop occurs, including details about the officer, the driver, and the reason for the stop. It aims to establish a standardized method of data collection to monitor and prevent racial profiling in law enforcement practices.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 05413 include concerns regarding the potential burden on police departments and the implications for law enforcement efficacy. Supporters argue that the data collected will be essential for driving reforms and improving community relations with law enforcement. Critics, however, may view the additional requirements as cumbersome or fear that the focus on data collection could detract from other essential law enforcement duties. Balancing effective policing with the imperative to eliminate racial profiling remains a significant challenge within the discussions surrounding this bill.