Connecticut House Bill HB05152

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/19
• Refer: 1/10/19
• Refer: 2/27/19
• Report Pass: 3/19/19
• Refer: 3/29/19
• Report Pass: 4/4/19
• Refer: 4/10/19
• Report Pass: 5/2/19
• Refer: 5/10/19

Caption

An Act Requiring A Study Of Marijuana-impaired Driving And Methods To Detect Marijuana-impaired Driving.

Impact

The implementation of HB05152 is expected to have significant implications for state laws surrounding traffic safety and marijuana use. By fostering a detailed examination of cannabis-related driving impairment, the bill aims to inform potential regulatory changes or enforcement policies that may arise from the study findings. It also suggests an active engagement of law enforcement in understanding and mitigating marijuana impairment on the roads, ultimately reflecting a proactive approach to traffic safety in the age of legalized marijuana.

Summary

House Bill 05152 is an act requiring a comprehensive study on marijuana-impaired driving. The bill mandates the Commissioner of Transportation, in consultation with several state departments, to investigate how marijuana use affects driver impairment and the consequent trends in motor vehicle accidents. A key goal of this bill is to identify effective detection methods, evaluate existing state-level policies regarding marijuana impaired driving, and suggest appropriate training for law enforcement to enhance public safety.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment among lawmakers and stakeholders regarding HB05152 appears to be supportive, recognizing the need for data-driven policies related to marijuana use and driving. The bill has been met with enthusiasm by various advocacy groups who emphasize the importance of public safety and proper detection methods for drug-impaired driving. However, there might be concerns regarding the thoroughness and implications of the recommendation outcomes, particularly in ensuring that law enforcement practices are fair and effective.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB05152 could arise from the various interpretations of study findings and their enforcement implications. There may be fears among advocacy groups regarding potential biases in how marijuana impairment is perceived and enforced by law enforcement. This concern emphasizes the importance of ensuring that the recommendations are based on objective, comprehensive data rather than preconceived notions about cannabis use and driving.