Louisiana lawmakers are considering legislation that would require all people who have been convicted of two felony drug offenses to have the words “Drug Offender” printed in orange on their driver’s license. The bill which is sponsored by Rep. Rickey Hardy, D-Lafayette has been unanimously approved by the House Committee on Transportation, Highways and Public Works. Now it will go before the full House.

Louisiana already requires certain people convicted of sex offenses to have the words “Sex Offender’ printed on their license.

According to its supporters the legislation will help law enforcement officers. But the effect of the legislation would be to destroy the lives of ex-felons who may no longer be involved with narcotics. Driver’s licenses are used for many things. You cannot cash a check, rent an apartment, or get governmental services without showing your driver’s license. Thus the effect of the legislation may be to force ex cons to go homeless. steal merchandise, or go without vital services.

Furthermore any assistance to peace officers is minimal at best. Arrests can only be made upon a showing of probable cause. And probable cause cannot be based upon past convictions. It can only be based upon current information. It may result in police officers making arrest and performing searches without probable cause and these cases would have to be thrown out by the courts.

Thus while providing little benefit it would make it more difficult for ex offenders to get jobs, housing, and benefits. I guess the only way they will be able to survive is by selling drugs. Good job legislators!