Starting January 2024, a new law in California will transform police interactions with drivers and pedestrians. Under this law, police officers must state the reason for stopping an individual before posing any questions. This aims to reduce pretextual stops, where officers detain someone for a minor infraction to investigate more serious crimes. Signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom in fall 2022, AB 2773 targets the Department of the California Highway Patrol, county sheriffs, and city police officers.
The law was passed with significant support in both the Assembly and the Senate, reflecting the Democratic majority in both chambers. Assembly member Chris Holden, the author of the law, emphasizes its role in fostering equity and accountability, and in preventing escalations during police-civilian interactions.
Exceptions are allowed if an officer needs to act immediately to protect life or property. Additionally, the new law mandates that law enforcement agencies record the reasons for all stops in arrest reports.
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