Like many large cities, Philadelphia has long faced tension between police and the communities they serve. A recent reform—banning minor traffic stops—aims to ease that strain. Supporters hope it leads to fewer arrests and safer outcomes, while critics question the law’s potential impact.
So, what should Philadelphia residents expect from this new policy? Is meaningful change on the horizon, or will the results fall short?
Philadelphia Passes the Driving Equity Act
After Mayor Kenney signed the Driving Equity Act into law, Philadelphia became the first major city to ban traffic stops for minor infractions in the United States. But where did such monumental legislation come from?
Philadelphia Council Member Isaiah Thomas drafted the law after a traffic stop that impacted him. But he said the act came from a lifetime of living as a Black man in Philadelphia.
Multiple studies suggest that Black drivers are more likely than other motorists to be pulled over for minor infractions. Speaking with NPR News, Thomas said that this apparent bias was a major source of inspiration for the new legislation.
What Does the Law Change?
The Driving Equity Act goes into effect at the beginning of 2022. But what will change on Philly’s streets? The most obvious impact, Police will no longer be able to stop drivers for the following violations:
- Having no emissions or inspection sticker
- Having a broken taillight
- Having a broken headlight
- Failing to display, fasten, or make visible your vehicle’s registration
- Having a minor obstruction of your vision while driving
To be clear, you can still get a ticket for these violations. But police won’t be able to stop you for them in Philadelphia. Instead, you will get the ticket in the mail or on your windshield.
In addition to the ban on traffic stops for minor infractions, the new law will require the police to release traffic stop data publicly.
The Driving Equity Act: Pros and Cons
The Driving Equity Act appears to be squarely aimed at addressing systemic racial bias in Philadelphia’s criminal justice system. If successful, It will be a significant win for criminal justice reform. However, this law has its critics.
Here are some advantages that residents and commentators have pointed out:
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Fewer police encounters: Reducing low-level stops could prevent conflicts that sometimes escalate into violence.
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Refocused policing: Officers may spend more time addressing serious traffic offenses that pose real danger.
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Greater transparency: Public access to traffic stop data helps communities hold law enforcement accountable.
Here are some of the drawbacks:
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Road safety risks: Ignoring equipment violations—like broken lights—could lead to more accidents.
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Due process issues: Fighting a ticket received by mail may be more difficult without a direct police encounter.
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Insurance compliance: Some may wrongly believe they no longer need auto insurance, increasing financial risks in serious crashes.
Will the Ban Make a Difference?
Before we see the real-world effect of Philadelphia’s Driving Equity Act, we must approach it with optimism. Most of us can agree that something needs to change to ease tensions, and this is, without a doubt, a big change.
For now, we can hope for fewer traffic stops that end in violence and fewer criminal charges stemming from traffic stops that upend people’s lives. Only time will tell.
Charged After a Traffic Stop? Call a Traffic Violation Lawyer
Even with the Driving Equity Act in place, traffic stops and related charges haven’t disappeared. If you or a loved one is arrested in connection with a traffic incident, don’t face it alone.
Attorney Michael Fienman of Fienman Defense understands Philadelphia’s laws and how to protect your rights. He can help you navigate your case and work toward the best possible resolution.
Call (215) 839-9529 today for a free, confidential consultation—available 24/7.
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