Colorado Bill Would Ban Officers from Asking: “Do You Know Why I Pulled You Over?”

Could a routine traffic stop question soon be off-limits in Colorado?

A new bill in Colorado, HB25-1243, is gaining attention for proposing major changes to how traffic stops are conducted. At the center of the debate is a line nearly every officer has used: “Do you know why I pulled you over?”

What the Bill Proposes

If passed, HB25-1243 would:

Prohibit officers from asking drivers or passengers, “Do you know why I pulled you over?” or similar questions.
Require officers to immediately explain the reason for the traffic stop.

This would change how officers open and manage roadside interactions across the state.

Arguments in Support

Proponents say the bill would:

Improve safety by reducing time spent roadside — a risky environment due to high-speed traffic and weather.
Protect constitutional rights by minimizing self-incrimination.
Increase transparency and reduce racial profiling, especially for drivers of color who are disproportionately stopped.

Supporters include:

AAA (American Automobile Association): Emphasizes roadside safety for both motorists and officers.
Senator Faith Winter (Bill Co-sponsor): Advocates for racial equity and harm reduction.

Similar Laws Elsewhere

California, Connecticut, and Minnesota have passed similar laws in recent years aimed at increasing traffic stop transparency.

Status of the Bill

HB25-1243 was scheduled for hearing in the House Judiciary Committee on March 12.

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