In previous years, similar legislation has failed. But this year, the bill, sponsored by Sen. Joel Chaisson II (D-Destrehan), has a better chance of passage because the state's powerful liquor lobby has dropped its opposition to the ban.

According to Chaisson, the liquor industry is more receptive to the measure because he rewrote it to establish a uniform, statewide ban. Previous versions did not include a pre-emption provision to address the myriad open-container laws now in existence in 18 parishes and 180 cities throughout the state.

Chaisson's bill also addresses concerns of cities and parishes that charge higher fines for violations. The state measure calls for a $100 fine and payment of local government court costs. An amendment to the bill would allow Kenner, Bossier City, and the parishes of Jefferson, Orleans, and East Baton Rouge to maintain their higher fines, which range from $200 to $500.

"I am trying to stave off opposition from the cities and parishes that charge the higher fines," Chaisson said. "I'll do whatever it takes to get it passed. This bill will save lives. We will have a uniform law except for fines and court costs in the areas that already have higher penalties."

The legislation moves on to the Louisiana House of Representatives, which has killed similar bills in the past.

COMMENTS ON THIS ARTICLE:

Your Turn! Post a public comment (read guidelines):

Name:
Comment: (limit 200 words)
Enter this word (help):	Change

GUIDELINES: 
To keep this feature useful for all, please:

1. Keep it clean, courteous, and on-topic. Comments are meant for thoughtful discussion of the article published above.
   
   
2. Do not post promotional links to organizations, products or services, or personal requests for assistance (get help).
   
   
3. Proof your comments carefully, use good spelling and punctuation, and don't use ALL CAPS. Comments are published immediately and cannot be edited.

Deceptive, slanderous and commercially-motivated posts are prohibited. We reserve the right to remove comments not conforming to these guidelines. (Report a comment).

Have questions or feedback? Contact us.