BACKGROUND 

In recent years the role and function of traffic law enforcement have changed. Some jurisdictions have placed limitations on the engagement of police officers in certain traffic safety functions, such as policies that forbid traffic stops for vehicle equipment violations. There has been a reduction in the number of sworn law enforcement officers in many jurisdictions due to retirements, increased vacancy rates, and other factors, thus further contributing to a reduction in traffic enforcement activity. 

With changes in the role and function of traffic law enforcement, two questions germane to state highway safety offices (SHSOs) and their law enforcement partners are (1) does the public accept and want police to enforce traffic safety laws and (2) what should be the future role and function of law enforcement officers in traffic enforcement? Research is needed to help answer both questions. 

OBJECTIVE 

The objective of this research is to develop a roadmap for the future role of law enforcement personnel to enforce traffic safety laws. 

STATUS: Research underway.