Another Insane Graffiti Law
“In the recently ended session of the Legislature, state Rep. Anthony Ligi of Metairie successfully sponsored a bill that skyrockets the penalties for graffiti. Currently the maximum fine in New Orleans is $500, plus community service, restitution and a possible six months in jail. Beginning Aug. 15, the maximum fine increases to $10,000 with a prison term of up to 10 years.”
First let me say I am not advocating graffiti nor the destruction of anyone’s property, but you have to wonder how can this creative outlet be punished so harshly. Sure graffiti can be ugly and bring down property values, but isn’t the chance of community service, a small fine and six months in jail enough to deter most people from this “crime”? Wouldn’t cities across the U.S. benefit more from having this part of urban culture around? Shouldn’t they look to provide ways to incorporate graffiti into parts of their cities to help control the problem and create a tourist attraction? Retail has been doing this for decades and some of todays top artist have their roots in street art. Cities need to realize the change in culture and stop suppressing creativity. Learn from NYC’s mistake. When NYC implemented their zero tolerance procedures, pulling trains immediately out of service if they have any graffiti on them, tourism fell sharply. Millions of people flocked to NYC to see the art cars they had heard about and seen in movies, until they were gone. I don’t want to see graffiti legalized by any means, that would kill the rebellious nature of it, but don’t ruin some kids life by locking him up for a decade over this non-violent crime.
Source: [nola.com]
