CA - Alternate Stimulus Plan: TRIPLE fines for DUI, DWI, Reckless driving... (crimes)

[tiresidedown]

What can the State do to raise some money?

How about dramatically increasing the financial penalty for certain crimes, things that there is no good excuse for in any circumstance?

DUI
DWI
Reckless driving (over 100mph)
Hate Crimes
other nasty things..

Yes, it would create a hardship for certain types of people, and I'm cool with that.

[zen_klown]

I believe you would be constrained somewhat by the feds. The 8th amendment prohibits cruel and unusual punishment. As I recall reading, there is a requirement of proportionality. While there is room for raising the fees aggressively, probably not enough to make up for the type of revenue shortfalls the state was facing.

[Ludachris]

Originally Posted by zen_klown

I believe you would be constrained somewhat by the feds. The 8th amendment prohibits cruel and unusual punishment. As I recall reading, there is a requirement of proportionality. While there is room for raising the fees aggressively, probably not enough to make up for the type of revenue shortfalls the state was facing.

It doesn't necessarily have to make up for all of the revenue, just some of it.

I'm all for it! (not that it matters since we still haven't moved to the area)

[OCADA]

The penalty assessment was already 2x+ so its not that huge of an increase.

[Mailman]

If you're proposing stiffer penalties for those driving under the influence why not apply the same standard for those driving while on the phone.
Their attentiveness to their surroundings is much the same as a drunk driver, and in some cases worse. A drunk driver who knows they're drunk will often times make an effort to drive safely, whereas one on the phone doesn't necessarily feel they're doing anything wrong.

[Ludachris]

Originally Posted by Mailman

If you're proposing stiffer penalties for those driving under the influence why not apply the same standard for those driving while on the phone.
Their attentiveness to their surroundings is much the same as a drunk driver, and in some cases worse. A drunk driver who knows they're drunk will often times make an effort to drive safely, whereas one on the phone doesn't necessarily feel they're doing anything wrong.

good point. Add that one in too!

[Curmudgeon]

Unfortunately, that would likely target those least likely to or capable of paying increased fines resulting in jail and prison sentences and more costs for the responsible, honest citizens.

[Ludachris]

Originally Posted by Curmudgeon

Unfortunately, that would likely target those least likely to or capable of paying increased fines resulting in jail and prison sentences and more costs for the responsible, honest citizens.

Then only target the BMW drivers!

I'm just kidding. In all seriousness, I think fines should be raised some. There should be more incentive to abide by the law and more revenue generated by the state for those who choose not to. If the people cannot pay the fines, then heavy community service projects should be identified that could directly help save the state money - projects that require state employee time.

Hell, maybe we could set up community service programs to give lawmakers some time off and have the laws voted on by lawbreakers! LOL!

[Curmudgeon]

Originally Posted by Ludachris

If the people cannot pay the fines, then heavy community service projects should be identified that could directly help save the state money - projects that require state employee time.

But this is California and then the labor unions would squawk saying the state is taking jobs away from "working families." The union bought-and-paid-for Legislature would roll over in a heartbeat.

All part and parcel of why we're leaving here and moving east.