CT HB05223

Restricts police officers from initiating or engaging in pursuits unless authorized by supervisory personnel and only when the driver or occupant is suspected of committing a serious felony offense (effective July 1, 2018).

Requires the Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection to adopt a statewide pursuit policy in conjunction with the Chief State's Attorney, Police Officer Standards and Training Council, Connecticut Police Chiefs Association, and Connecticut Coalition of Police and Correctional Officers.

Mandates that local police departments adhere to the statewide pursuit policy, though departments may prohibit pursuits entirely if they choose.

Requires police chiefs or the Commissioner to submit a report to the Criminal Justice Policy and Planning Division within 30 days of any pursuit resulting in serious physical injury or death of another person.

Increases the penalty for evading police by increasing speed from a class A misdemeanor to a class E felony, and makes it a class C felony if the violation causes death or serious physical injury to another person (effective October 1, 2018).