Scarlet Letter Tag Law Proposed in Mississippi
If a Mississippi legislator has his way, the Scarlet Letter Tag Bill will soon be made into law. The goal is to punish repeat DUI offenders in hopes of deterring them from committing the crime yet again. Studies have shown that similar laws already in effect in other states do very little to reduce the number of deaths caused by DUI crashes.
Gary Chism has proposed the law which would apply to second-time DUI offenders. If convicted, a second-time offender would be required to install yellow license plates with red printing onto their vehicles. These plates serve as a beacon to other motorists on the road who are on the lookout for those driving under the influence.
Groups like the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) oppose the law, saying that it brings undue shame and embarrassment onto the heads of offenders. Unfair humiliation and potential job loss are the bigger picture when considering the use of these plates. Opponents of the law also point to research that shows that these license plates do not serve to deter people from drinking and driving, and that the plates only serve to humiliate those people who have been convicted of a crime.
If you are arrested for driving under the influence, you need an attorney who can help you avoid the potential embarrassment that a conviction can bring. Do not fight for your rights on your own. Hire an experienced DUI attorney from Hawkins Spizman Fortas. Call us today for a free case evaluation and let us assist you as you work to put your life back together.