Policy Resolution LJE-16-10

WHEREAS, the instances of violence occurring during traffic stops is a growing concern for citizens;

WHEREAS, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, black drivers were three times as likely as white drivers to be searched during a traffic stop in 2008;

WHEREAS, studies show people of color are much less likely than whites to say officers acted properly at a traffic stop;

WHEREAS, it is essential that this nation prevent, to the extent possible, the loss of another innocent life in such encounters; and

WHEREAS, states such as Tennessee, Rhode Island, and Illinois, offers a unique approach to this issue with legislation seeking to improve mutual understanding between drivers and law enforcement and to save lives.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the National Black Caucus of State Legislators (NBCSL) supports legislation and initiatives geared toward fostering a mutual understanding of the rights and responsibilities of drivers and law enforcement personnel;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the NBCSL encourages states to examine models which focus on recording interactions between law enforcement and citizens and adopt versions suitable to their own jurisdictions; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States, the Vice President of the United States, members of the United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate, and other federal and state government officials as appropriate.

• SPONSOR: Representative Larry J. Miller (TN)
  
• Committee of Jurisdiction: Law, Justice, and Ethics Policy Committee
  
• Certified by Committee Co-Chairs: Senator Arthenia Joyner (FL) and Representative Reginald Meeks (KY)
  
• Ratified in Plenary Session: Ratification Date is December 4, 2015
  
• Ratification is certified by: Senator Catherine Pugh (MD), President