Texas Senate Bill SB2141

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to motorcycle profiling by peace officers.

Impact

The implications of SB 2141 are significant, as it enhances legal protections for individuals against unjust profiling by law enforcement. By granting individuals the right to bring lawsuits against peace officers for violations of this law, the bill establishes a civil remedy that can include damages, legal costs, and injunctions against future profiling. This framework serves to hold law enforcement accountable and encourages fair treatment regardless of an individual's mode of transportation.

Summary

Senate Bill 2141 addresses the issue of motorcycle profiling by peace officers in Texas. The bill explicitly prohibits law enforcement from initiating actions based on an individual's motorcycle usage or related paraphernalia, emphasizing that profiling should not occur unless there is verifiable behavior indicating criminal activity. This legislation aims to safeguard the rights of motorcyclists and prevent discriminatory practices that may arise from broad assumptions tied to motorcycle culture.

Contention

While supporters of SB 2141 argue that it fills a crucial gap in protecting bikers' civil liberties, critics may raise concerns regarding its potential impact on law enforcement operations. Some may argue that explicitly banning motorcycle profiling could hinder officers' ability to conduct proactive policing or that the definition of profiling may be too broad. The law seeks a balance between ensuring public safety and upholding individual rights, making it a point of contention in discussions about law enforcement practices.