BATON ROUGE, La. – Louisiana lawmakers are considering proposed legislation that would make driving more than 30 miles per hour over the posted speed limit a felony offense under state law.
The proposed measure would significantly increase penalties for extreme speeding violations. Under the bill, drivers caught traveling 30 mph or more above the posted speed limit could face:
Felony criminal charges
Possible prison time
Substantial fines
Suspension or revocation of driver’s license
Currently, most speeding violations in Louisiana are treated as traffic offenses or misdemeanors, depending on the circumstances. The proposed legislation would elevate severe speeding into a more serious criminal category.
Supporters of the bill say the change is aimed at reducing dangerous driving and preventing serious crashes, particularly on highways and in populated areas. Lawmakers argue that excessive speeding is often a contributing factor in fatal and injury crashes.
Advocates believe tougher penalties could act as a deterrent and help curb reckless driving behavior.
Opponents question whether making the offense a felony may be too harsh, especially for first-time offenders. Some critics argue that existing reckless operation laws already provide courts with tools to penalize dangerous drivers.
There are also concerns about the long-term consequences of a felony conviction, including impacts on employment, housing, and civil rights.
The bill will move through the legislative process, including committee review and floor debate, before any final vote. If approved and signed into law, the changes would take effect on a date specified in the legislation.
Lawmakers encourage residents to follow the bill’s progress through the Louisiana Legislature as discussions continue.
Drivers are reminded to obey posted speed limits and drive responsibly to help keep Louisiana roads safe.
