MA H1894

Evidence obtained during a traffic stop would be inadmissible in criminal proceedings if unrelated to the traffic violation, unless the officer had reasonable suspicion or probable cause of a felony or misdemeanor before initiating the stop

Places the burden on the Commonwealth to prove by preponderance of evidence that reasonable suspicion or probable cause existed prior to the traffic stop in suppression motions

Prohibits law enforcement from using traffic enforcement as a pretext for investigating unrelated criminal activity, while preserving authority to issue citations, warnings, or make arrests for traffic violations

Creates a suppression remedy requiring exclusion of evidence obtained in violation of the section from any criminal proceeding in Massachusetts courts

Allows individuals subjected to violating traffic stops to pursue civil remedies under state or federal law, including injunctive relief or monetary damages