TRENTON – Legislation sponsored by Senators Jeff Van Drew and Donald Norcross to prohibit vehicle checkpoints that are limited to motorcycles was approved today by the Senate Transportation Committee.
The bill (S-1685) is in response to a program states are being encouraged to implement which would establish checkpoints where motorcycle drivers are subject to an equipment and paperwork check. The measure would prohibit law enforcement agencies from conducting a roadside checkpoint or other systematic inspection of vehicles along public roads, streets, and highways if it is established for the sole purpose of inspecting vehicles. Those conducted for legitimate public safety reasons would not be restricted.
“Stopping a driver strictly because of the type of vehicle they are operating is unfair to motorists, plain and simple,” said Senator Van Drew (D-Cape May/Cumberland/Atlantic). “Banning these discriminatory checkpoints will ensure that those traveling our roadways are not targeted by law enforcement simply because they are operating a motorcycle.”
“Motorcyclists should not be singled out at a checkpoint merely because they are driving a certain kind of vehicle,” said Senator Norcross (D-Camden/Gloucester). “This bill will ensure that our motor vehicle rules are carried out in an evenhanded manner and that drivers are treated fairly under our laws.”