Bill > S1182

This bill aims to address potential racial profiling and improper law enforcement practices during traffic stops by establishing new legal standards for evidence collection and admissibility. Specifically, the bill proposes that evidence obtained during a traffic stop shall be inadmissible in criminal proceedings if it is unrelated to the original traffic violation, unless the officer had reasonable suspicion or probable cause to believe the vehicle's occupants were engaged in a felony or misdemeanor before initiating the stop. The legislation places the burden of proof on the commonwealth to demonstrate that such reasonable suspicion or probable cause existed prior to the traffic stop. The bill explicitly states that law enforcement can still enforce traffic laws and issue citations, but emphasizes that traffic enforcement cannot be used as a pretext for investigating unrelated criminal activity. Furthermore, the bill provides that any evidence obtained in violation of these provisions would be suppressed in criminal proceedings, and individuals subjected to improper traffic stops may pursue civil remedies including injunctive relief or monetary damages. The goal of the bill appears to be preventing discriminatory policing practices and protecting individuals' rights during traffic encounters.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1182