Louisiana House Bill HB487

Louisiana 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/31/17
• Refer: 3/31/17
• Refer: 4/10/17
• Report Pass: 4/24/17
• Engrossed: 5/3/17
• Refer: 5/8/17
• Report Pass: 5/22/17
• Enrolled: 5/25/17
• Chaptered: 6/12/17
• Passed: 6/12/17

Caption

Relative to fraudulent or fictitious identification credentials (EN SEE FISC NOTE SG RV See Note)

Impact

The passing of HB 487 will amend existing laws concerning identification documentation. By explicitly prohibiting novelty credentials that could mislead individuals into believing they are valid, this bill enforces a higher standard for identification verification. The bill empowers the Department of Public Safety and Corrections to take more assertive action against violators by issuing cease and desist orders and seeking injunctive relief in courts, thereby enhancing the enforcement mechanisms available to state authorities for regulating identification credentials. This aligns with broader state goals to combat fraud and increase public safety.

Summary

House Bill 487 aims to strengthen the regulation of fraudulent or fictitious identification credentials in Louisiana. The legislation seeks to prohibit the production, manufacture, sale, and possession of novelty or unofficial credentials intended to simulate valid identification documents issued by government entities. The bill enforces stricter provisions that clarify unacceptable defenses in cases of violations and sets forth penalties to deter such activities. By doing so, the law aims to safeguard against identity theft and ensure the integrity of legitimate identification processes within the state.

Sentiment

General sentiment toward HB 487 seems to be supportive, particularly among lawmakers who view the bill as a necessary step to protect against identity fraud and enhance public trust in identification documents. There appears to be an acknowledgment that the proliferation of novelty credentials poses a significant threat to legitimate identification systems. Although data on public opinion is limited, the unanimous passing of the bill with 33 votes in the Senate underscores a strong legislative consensus in favor of the bill's objectives.

Contention

One notable point of contention regarding HB 487 lies in the potential implications for vendors and individuals selling novelty items. Critics may argue that the bill's strict regulations could unintentionally impact businesses that produce novelty items without any intent to deceive. However, the bill makes it clear that the mere appearance of a novelty item does not exempt an individual from prosecution if it simulates valid identification credentials. This ongoing debate calls attention to the balance that must be struck between combating fraudulent activities and protecting legitimate novelty item businesses.