This got me to thinking how horrible an idea this is when licenses are suspended for reasons other then violating driving laws.
According to the reporter, "..some states have begun suspending driver’s licenses for unsatisfied debts stemming from any criminal case, from misdemeanors like marijuana possession to felonies.."
As the article goes on to point out it's no wonder so many people are driving while their license is under suspension. Seems to me the punishment doesn't fit the crime. It also seems to me if we take away someone's means to support themselves there's little chance they will ever have the opportunity to make good on the debts they owe. We must remember not all these people have alternative transportation available. Most employers won't hire someone without a car. Not everyone lives in a high density area where public transportation is readily available. Ever check out the bus schedules to where you work in the Lehigh Valley?
I have no problem taking away drivers privileges from jerks behind the wheel. I do have a problem with blackmailing people with the threat of removing their privileges on entirely unrelated matters. Taking away a persons means of a livelihood does neither they nor the persons they owe any good. It only serves to kick a person already down more then they need be. I find this to be not only revengeful but spiteful as well. Both should have no place in what we'd like to think of as justice within our system.
I dread to think how far this could go now that we've cracked this door open.
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