Substitute House Bill No. 7074 seeks to revise Connecticut's uniform state-wide police pursuit policy by establishing new criteria for when police officers may engage in pursuits. The bill mandates that the Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection, in collaboration with law enforcement and public safety organizations, create a policy that allows pursuits when officers believe a felony has been committed. It replaces previous conditions for initiating and discontinuing pursuits with a focus on public safety, the nature of the offense, and the associated risks. The bill also emphasizes the importance of coordination among supervisory personnel during pursuits, particularly when they cross municipal boundaries.

Key changes include the deletion of outdated conditions for pursuits and the insertion of new factors that officers must consider, such as public protection, the urgency of apprehension, and the risks involved. Officers are now required to evaluate alternative measures for apprehending suspects and to assess various conditions, including traffic and weather, when deciding to discontinue a pursuit. Additionally, the bill stipulates that the pursuit policy must be reviewed and updated every five years, with the next review due by January 1, 2027. This legislative update aims to enhance the clarity and effectiveness of police pursuit protocols while ensuring that officers are well-informed and trained on the new policy.