Connecticut House Bill HB05786

Connecticut 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/25
• Refer: 1/21/25

Caption

An Act Establishing A Pilot Program Allowing Police To Use A System That Launches A Global Positioning System Device Onto Another Vehicle.

Impact

The statutory amendments proposed by HB 5786 suggest that participating police departments would receive grants to implement the GPS system, thereby providing them the necessary funding and support to adopt this technology. Once the system is used, the departments will be required to report their findings and experiences to the Police Officer Standards and Training Council. This feedback loop could lead to informed decisions about the wider implementation of such tracking systems in the future.

Summary

House Bill 5786 proposes the establishment of a pilot program that allows three municipal police departments to install a system enabling police officers to launch a GPS device onto another vehicle. The primary intention of this bill is to enhance law enforcement capabilities by providing a non-intrusive method for tracking vehicles, particularly in situations involving auto theft, without resorting to high-speed pursuits. The bill is backed by Representatives Fishbein and Mushinsky and is aimed at modernizing police practices with advanced technology.

Contention

While the bill aims for better tracking of auto thieves and more effective policing, there may be concerns regarding privacy and the potential for misuse of such technology. Critics might argue about the implications of launching tracking devices and the risk of encroaching on individual rights. Furthermore, the discussion could extend to accountability measures and regulations governing the use of GPS systems to ensure they are employed ethically and responsibly.