Bill > HF4286

This bill modifies laws related to fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle and police pursuits, aiming to enhance public safety. It requires peace officers employed by the state patrol to make reasonable efforts to apprehend individuals suspected of violating the law against fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle. The bill also clarifies that fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle is considered an actual and imminent threat of death or great bodily harm to the public. Furthermore, it authorizes peace officers to use intervention techniques during motor vehicle pursuits that may result in death or great bodily harm, unless the officer would not have immunity. Importantly, the bill establishes immunity for peace officers and their employers from criminal or civil liability for injuries or property damage occurring during a pursuit, unless the officer commits a federal civil rights violation, intends to cause harm, or knows capture is impossible or highly unlikely. It also makes individuals who flee in a motor vehicle civilly liable for injuries or property damage resulting from the pursuit when an intervention technique is used, with some exceptions for certain vehicles or circumstances. These changes are set to take effect on August 1, 2026, and will apply to crimes committed on or after that date.