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SB 402

AN ACT CONCERNING POLICE OFFICER DISCRETION TO PURSUE MOTOR VEHICLES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Stephen Harding

SB 402 modifies Connecticut police pursuit authority, affecting when officers can pursue vehicles and balancing law enforcement capability against public safety risks from high-speed chases.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Public Safety and Security
#motorvehicles #policeofficerstandardsandtrainingcouncil #policepursuit
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Bill Summary · SB 402

Legislative bill overview

SB 402 would modify Connecticut law regarding when police officers can pursue motor vehicles, likely expanding or clarifying the circumstances under which high-speed pursuits are permitted. The bill has been referred to the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Security for review and has not yet had substantive debate or amendments in the 2025 legislative session.

Why is this important

Police pursuit policies directly affect public safety outcomes—both for officers and civilians. States across the country have grappled with balancing law enforcement's need to apprehend suspects against the documented risks of high-speed chases, which kill hundreds of people annually and often harm innocent bystanders. Connecticut's approach to officer discretion in this area influences how departments balance enforcement priorities with liability and community safety.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of discretion: Whether expanding officer discretion reduces accountability or appropriately trusts officer judgment; critics worry broad discretion increases unnecessary pursuits of minor offenses
  • Public safety trade-offs: Pursuit policies that restrict chases reduce civilian injuries but may allow suspects to escape; conversely, permissive policies catch more suspects but increase crash risks
  • Liability and training: Unclear whether the bill includes standards, training requirements, or liability protections for municipalities and officers engaging in pursuits

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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