Connecticut 2025 Regular Session

Connecticut House Bill HB05692

Introduced
1/21/25  

Caption

An Act Concerning The Consumption Of Cannabis In A Motor Vehicle.

Impact

If passed, the bill could significantly impact state laws regarding the consumption of cannabis in vehicles. It introduces a statutory blood THC level at which drivers could be charged with driving under the influence of cannabis. This measure parallels existing laws for alcohol and aims to enhance road safety by discouraging impaired driving. Furthermore, the requirement for blood testing consent for cannabis-related DUI incidents would add another layer of regulation within state driving laws.

Summary

House Bill 05692 addresses the issue of cannabis consumption in motor vehicles, proposing to amend various statutes to establish a framework for law enforcement to manage cannabis-related driving offenses. The bill allows police officers to use the odor of cannabis or burnt cannabis as grounds to stop or search a vehicle. Additionally, it establishes clear guidelines for treating cannabis consumption in a motor vehicle similar to alcohol consumption, thereby creating a legal basis for fines and penalties associated with this substance's use on the road.

Contention

Debate surrounding HB 05692 may center around the implications for public safety and law enforcement practices. Proponents may argue that the bill improves accountability and safety on the roads, especially considering the increasing acceptance and legality of cannabis use. Critics, however, may raise concerns about the potential for overreach in law enforcement practices and question the fairness and accuracy of THC blood level testing as it pertains to actual impairment. There could also be discussions regarding racial profiling and the enforcement of drug-related stops under subjective assessments of odor.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT HB06426

An Act Concerning Driving While Under The Influence Of Cannabis.

CT HB06268

An Act Concerning Motor Vehicle Stops And The Odor Of Cannabis.

CT HB05434

An Act Concerning The Regulation Of Cannabis.

CT SB00232

An Act Concerning Traffic Stops For Suspected Cannabis Use By Drivers And Tests For The Detection Of Cannabis Use By Drivers.

CT HB05327

An Act Revising Motor Vehicle Statutes Concerning Towing Occupied Vehicles And The Operation And Inspection Of School Buses.

CT SB00230

An Act Concerning Mailing Of Test Results Related To Operating A Motor Vehicle Or Vessel Under The Influence Of Alcohol Or Drugs.

CT HB06699

An Act Concerning Cannabis Regulation.

CT SB00994

An Act Implementing The Recommendations Of The Department Of Motor Vehicles, Studying An Emergency Contact Information Database Or Revisions To Motor Vehicle Records And Concerning The Safety Driving Course, Motor Vehicle Dealers And Repairers, Motor Vehicle Safety Recalls, The Knowledge Test For An Operator's License, Reciprocal Recognition Of Driver Training Requirements, Trespass On Watershed Land, Emergency Lights, Removable Windshield Placards, School Buses, Registration Certificates And Minor Revisions To Motor Vehicle Statutes.

CT SB00183

An Act Implementing The Recommendations Of The Department Of Motor Vehicles And Concerning Low-speed Vehicles, The Towing Of Occupied Vehicles, School Buses, Electric Commercial Vehicles, The Passenger Registration Of Pick-up Trucks And Removable Windshield Placards For Persons Who Are Blind And Persons With Disabilities.

CT HB05509

An Act Concerning The Enticement Of A Minor To Commit A Crime, Searches Of A Motor Vehicle, The Psychiatric Security Review Board And Victims' Compensation.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.