Project Title: Traffic Enforcement Reform: A Policy Framework for Equity and Safety

Center on Race, Inequality, and the Law

Details
Project Title Traffic Enforcement Reform: A Policy Framework for Equity and Safety
Project Topics Policy Research, Policy Advocacy for Evidence based Policy Making Political Organization, Policy Change, and Advocacy Research, Analysis, Evaluation
Skills & Expertise Advocacy Strategy Development Collaboration Comparative Policy Analysis Data analysis Decision Matrix Design Effective Communication Legal Analysis Legislative Research Policy Evaluation Public Safety Evaluation Racial Disparity Analysis Report writing Research Methodology Stakeholder Engagement Strategic Thinking
Project Synopsis: Challenge/Opportunity
The Center on Race, Inequality, and the Law is a leader in addressing systemic inequalities through legal advocacy and research. They excel in producing cutting-edge scholarship and in advocating for policies that address racial disparities in various sectors, including law enforcement. However, one specific challenge they face is illustrating the racially disparate impact of existing policies.

This project offers students the opportunity to engage in meaningful policy analysis and advocacy work. They will develop critical skills in legislative analysis, policy evaluation, and research methods. The project will be divided into phases, including the review of existing laws, data analysis, and the development of policy recommendations. This structure allows students to systematically address the challenge while applying their interdisciplinary skills in a practical setting.

For students, this project is ideal as it bridges the gap between academic learning and real-world application. It provides hands-on experience in policy analysis and presentation. The project is not only academically enriching but also aligns with the students' career aspirations of tackling complex social challenges through evidence-based policymaking.

Project Synopsis: Activities/Actions Required
  1. Conduct a comprehensive review of New York’s vehicle and traffic laws.
  2. Develop a taxonomy of traffic violations based on their impact on public safety.
  3. Analyze traffic stop data to identify patterns of racial disparities..
  4. Identify best practices from jurisdictions with successful policy reforms.
  5. Develop legislative recommendations for traffic enforcement reform.
  6. Create an evidence-based decision matrix for policy advocacy.
  7. Engage with stakeholders to gather insights and feedback.
  8. Present findings and recommendations to the Center’s leadership.
Project Synopsis: Expected Results
  • Enhance students’ skills in policy analysis and advocacy.
  • Strengthen the Center’s ability to advocate for equitable traffic enforcement policies.
  • Improve racial justice and public safety outcomes through informed policy recommendations.

Project Timeline

Touchpoints & Assignments Date Type

Program Kickoff

Sep 12 2025 Event

Program Managers

Name Organization
Tiffany Charbonier New York University (NYU)

Teams

Team Name  Project Name  Team Members 
No Teams Available