Louisiana's Significant Victory in Higher Education

Louisiana is the first state in the nation to implement a statewide ban prohibiting public colleges from asking applicants about their criminal records. Considering that Louisiana has the highest incarceration rate in the country, this is a huge victory for people with a criminal record.

In 2018, 1,052 per 100,000 people in Louisiana were behind bars, totaling about 50,000 people altogether. As a result of this law, more people can enjoy equal opportunities in higher education upon their release from prison, rather than suffering discrimination due to their criminal past.

“Ban the Box” Movement

The state's decision supports the ongoing “ban the box” movement, which strives to ban employers and university admissions offices from requiring applicants to disclose their criminal history. Applicants are required to answer questions honestly, so if they're asked about any prior convictions, their chances of securing a favorable outcome can drastically decrease.

Thankfully, however, Louisiana's public universities are opening up their doors to those with a criminal past. Thousands of people can start fresh and rebuild their livelihoods thanks to the state's policy to “ban the box” in public college applications.

The benefits of higher education include:

• Career preparation and employment opportunities
  • Financial stability
• Practical benefits
  • Personal development
  • Health
  • Discipline
  • Enhanced communication
  • Civic involvement
• Poverty reduction
• An increased social and professional network
• Pursuing a passion

There are countless other benefits of higher education, and it's impressive that Louisiana is blazing the trail for states and countries to follow. We are proud of the steps Louisiana is making to reduce discrimination in public colleges against people with a criminal history.

Our Baton Rouge criminal defense attorney works tirelessly to prevent clients from suffering a criminal record so they can enjoy equal opportunities in higher education, employment, housing and more. If you got charged with a crime, don't sit on it, act on it. Contact (225) 330-7009 as soon as possible so we can work towards a brighter future on your behalf.

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