In Bossier Parish, Louisiana, there is a significant process at play when it comes to the money collected from tickets issued to 18-wheelers driving through the I-20 rehab zone. District Attorney Schuyler Marvin has been at the forefront of explaining these details. Once a ticket reaches his office, they carefully examine the person's driving record. If it is clean, they offer a diversion program. This program is crucial as it keeps the ticket off the person's record, ensuring their CDL license remains in good standing. This not only benefits the individual but also has implications for their professional lives.

Previous Coverage and Enforcement

December marked a significant milestone as it was one year since commercial vehicles were banned from the I-20 construction zone in Bossier City. Louisiana State Police and several local agencies have been actively enforcing this ban and have already written around 5,500 tickets. The enforcement efforts have been extensive, aiming to ensure the safety of the construction zone and the general public.

What Happens to Ticket Money

If an 18-wheeler driver who has been ticketed decides to go to court and pay the fine, the money from the ticket is divided among roughly a dozen government agencies. This includes the agency that initially wrote the ticket, as well as the city and sheriff's office. The distribution of this money is a complex process that requires careful consideration and management. It ensures that various entities play a role in the enforcement and safety efforts.

Marvin's Perspective

Ultimately, District Attorney Marvin's main goal is to keep these 18-wheelers out of the I-20 rehab zone. He goes so far as to suggest that the law should be kept in place permanently to safeguard people's safety. His stance is based on the importance of maintaining a safe environment during the construction phase. He believes that by keeping the 18-wheelers away from the zone, there will be fewer accidents and fewer risks to the construction workers and the general public.

Impact on Drivers

For the 18-wheeler drivers, being ticketed can have serious consequences. However, the diversion program offers them a chance to avoid having the ticket on their record. This can be a lifeline for many drivers who rely on their CDL licenses for their livelihoods. It shows that there is an understanding of the challenges faced by these drivers and an effort to provide them with a second chance.