1. United States
2. Wisc.
3. Letter

I write to demand that Congress enact federal legislation to regulate police high-speed pursuit policies nationwide, with a critical emphasis on accountability for officers and departments. Every year in the United States, thousands of police pursuits take place—such as nearly 3,000 pursuits reported in Pennsylvania in 2023 alone—resulting in approximately 323 deaths and over 7,400 injuries annually across the country. These include not only suspects and officers but also innocent bystanders, who account for about 27% of fatalities. The property damage and financial costs burden local budgets significantly, with damages averaging nearly $1,700 per pursuit across violator, police, and uninvolved vehicles in some jurisdictions. Alarmingly, an estimated 69 to 90% of pursuits start over minor offenses such as traffic violations and misdemeanors rather than violent felonies, exposing communities to unnecessary risks. Technological advancements, including ubiquitous dash and body cameras, reliable radio communication enabling coordinated blocking or containment tactics, and aerial tracking via drones or helicopters, offer safer alternatives to dangerous high-speed chases. Federal regulations should: Restrict high-speed pursuits primarily to violent felonies and immediate threats to public safety. Require supervisory authorization and continuous risk assessment during pursuits.Mandate the implementation of safer alternatives where feasible. Demand comprehensive data collection on pursuits, including reasons, outcomes, and involved parties. Crucially, hold individual officers and departments accountable through transparent reporting, independent oversight, and disciplinary mechanisms where policies are violated or negligence leads to harm. Accountability is essential to ensure public trust, reduce preventable injury and death, and improve policing practices. This includes standardized pursuit reporting, annual policy reviews, investigation of critical incidents, and public transparency on pursuit outcomes. Policies must clearly articulate roles and responsibilities to promote safe, responsible conduct at every level—from pursuing officers to supervisors and dispatchers. By instituting these measures, Congress can significantly reduce the death toll, injuries, and financial costs tied to high-speed pursuits while protecting the lives of officers, suspects, and bystanders alike. I urge you to prioritize this lifesaving reform for the safety, justice, and fiscal responsibility it demands. Thank you for your attention and commitment.