Drivers who are pulled over may receive more questions than they’re used to during traffic stops.
Virginia House Bill 1250, which is also called the Community Policing Act, went into effect today.
The new law requires law enforcement to gather and share information with the Virginia State Police, according to release from the Prince William County Police Department (PWCPD).
Some of the data has been collected during stops when arrests occurred or Virginia Uniformed Summons (VUS) were issued.
The driver’s age, gender, race and ethnicity is among the data that will be gathered.
Officers must also provide details about the stop, including the reason, the location, and if a warning, written citation or summons were issued.
Other data that’s going to be collected includes if someone was arrested, if individuals or vehicles were searched, as well as details about any warnings that were issued or violations or crimes anyone was charged with.
The Community Policing Act aims to prevent officers from using “biased-based profiling” when carrying out their duties.
Additionally, the PWCPD has begun giving out written warning notices, which don’t act as violation citations.
Those who receive a written warning notice won’t need to take further actions.
