California, January 23, 2024 – A significant change in the dynamics of traffic stops takes effect in California, introducing a new era of transparency and accountability in law enforcement interactions with the public. Per Assembly Bill 2773, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, officers are now mandated to state the reason for a stop before proceeding with questioning related to a traffic violation or criminal investigation.
The Genesis of AB 2773
The law, which came into effect on January 1, 2024, aims to reduce situations where minor traffic violations are used as pretexts for investigating other potential offenses. Assembly member Chris Holden, the bill’s author, stressed the importance of equity and accountability during the legislative process. “This confrontation between law enforcement and the public often starts because people of color are being asked to surrender their civil rights without even knowing why they are being stopped,” Holden articulated during a 2022 hearing.