Rep. Allie-Brennan: 'House Bill To Combat Street Takeovers Passes'

**News Release Submitted by Representative Raghib Allie-Brennan**

April 18, 2024

Exciting progress in the fight against street takeovers! I'm proud to announce that the legislation I co-sponsored has passed the House unanimously. House Bill 5413 will equip towns and cities with vital tools to combat this dangerous trend.

What are street takeovers? They're not just disruptive—they're downright dangerous. Large groups of ATVs and vehicles blocking roads, leading to parties that too often spiral into violence, even fatalities. But with HB 5413, we're taking action. This bill empowers communities to pass ordinances penalizing and fining those involved in street takeovers. Plus, it gives towns the power to suspend licenses and permanently revoke them for repeat offenders.

And here's the kicker: HB 5413 includes a provision to seize and destroy ATVs, dirt bikes, and mini motorcycles involved in these events. We're sending a clear message that reckless behavior won't be tolerated.

To those who raise concerns about enforcement, I hear you. Firstly, this bill provides towns and cities with measures that can serve as deterrents and help hold individuals accountable for their actions.

It's crucial to emphasize that enforcement doesn't solely rely on high-speed chases. Law enforcement agencies can employ various strategies, such as surveillance, community engagement, and coordination with other agencies, to identify and address street takeover incidents safely and effectively.

Ultimately, tackling street takeovers requires a multifaceted approach that involves legislative measures, law enforcement strategies, and community engagement. By working together, we can address these challenges and ensure the safety and well-being of our communities.

This is a crucial step in ensuring the safety of our streets and protecting our communities.

Rep. Raghib Allie-Brennan represents State House District 2, which includes parts of Bethel and Danbury.