Expresses support for actions taken to end motorcycling profiling
The resolution encourages greater public awareness of the issue of motorcycle profiling and advocates for better collaboration between the motorcycle community and law enforcement agencies. It calls for law enforcement officials to include statements that condemn motorcycle profiling in their policies and training materials. This aims to address and mitigate instances of profiling, thus enhancing the trust between motorcyclists and law enforcement, and promoting a more equitable treatment of citizens based on their mode of transportation.
HCR14 is a House Concurrent Resolution that expresses support for actions aimed at ending motorcycle profiling. The resolution highlights the increase in motorcyclist registrations over the years, noting a significant rise from approximately 3.8 million in 1997 to over 8.6 million in 2015. It cites the National Motorcycle Profiling Survey conducted in 2016, which revealed that around half of the surveyed motorcyclists felt they had been unfairly profiled by law enforcement at least once. Motorcycle profiling is defined as the unlawful use of motorcycle ownership or related apparel as a basis for law enforcement actions such as stops, searches, or arrests without a legal justification.
The general sentiment surrounding HCR14 appears to be supportive, as it aligns with civil rights advocacy and aims to combat discrimination against motorcyclists. By voicing support for increased awareness and law enforcement accountability, the resolution resonates with advocates for motorcyclist rights and community engagement. However, there may be some opposition from segments of law enforcement who might view the resolution as an undesired critique of their practices.
Notable points of contention involve the broader implications of motorcycle profiling as it pertains to civil liberties and the relationship between law enforcement and specific communities. Supporters of the resolution argue that it is essential for promoting fairness and protecting individual rights, while some oppose any implication that profiling is systemic or requires policy changes within law enforcement agencies. The challenge remains in balancing effective policing with ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their vehicle of choice, are treated fairly and respectfully.