chokehold ban

Chokehold Bans

After the murder of George Floyd, many cities and states limited or banned the use of chokeholds. In fact, it was the most common police reform of 2021. However, the vast majority of these new policies only redefined the use of chokeholds to lethal force, meaning chokeholds can be used, but only if and officer believes lethal force is justified.

last updated: November 2021

8 States
+DC

Banned Chokeholds


17 States

Chokeholds limited to lethal force


25 States

no Policy on Chokeholds

Recent Legislation

2021

Washington

  • Banned the use of chokeholds by police officers

Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Missouri, Nebraska, Tennessee, Texas & Wisconsin

  • Limited the use of chokeholds by police officers to lethal force scenarios

2020

California, Colorado, Massachusetts, Nevada, New York, Utah & Vermont

  • Banned the use of chokeholds by police officers

Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Oregon & Virginia

  • Limited the use of chokeholds by police officers to lethal force scenarios

 

Policy Momentum