Connecticut House Bill HB05460

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/23
• Refer: 1/17/23

Caption

An Act Repealing Restrictions On Cannabis-related Stops Or Searches Of A Person Or Motor Vehicle.

Impact

If enacted, HB 5460 would significantly alter the current legal landscape concerning cannabis-related offences and the investigative powers of law enforcement. By repealing section 54-33p of the general statutes, officers would regain the discretion to initiate searches based on the illicit odor of cannabis. This bill could lead to increased encounters between law enforcement and individuals in relation to cannabis activities, particularly in jurisdictions where cannabis use remains contentious or poorly understood.

Summary

House Bill 5460, introduced in January 2023, aims to repeal existing restrictions on cannabis-related stops or searches of a person or motor vehicle. The primary objective of this bill is to restore the authority of law enforcement officers to use the odor of cannabis as a basis for conducting investigatory stops or searches. This proposed change responds to evolving perspectives on cannabis regulation and law enforcement practices in light of recent legalization movements across various states.

Contention

The bill could provoke concern among civil liberties advocates and community organizations. Critics might argue that allowing officers to use the smell of cannabis as probable cause could lead to racial profiling and unwarranted confrontations. Previous examples where such provisions were used have raised alarms over the potential for abuse of power. Thus, there may be significant debate regarding the implications of restoring such authority to law enforcement, potentially stoking tensions around public safety and personal freedom.