New law makes panhandling illegal on most Louisiana streets

LAKE CHARLES, La. (KPLC) – A new law currently in effect in Louisiana now makes panhandling illegal on most streets across the state.

While panhandling along interstates in Louisiana has been illegal, ACT 678 includes all public rights of way such as public sidewalks and roads.

“The change from the new law to the old law is when you are coming off the interstate and people are there begging you for money, that is illegal now,” Calcasieu Parish Sheriff Stitch Guillory said.

Panhandling in these prohibited areas is punishable by an up to $200 fine. Offenders will first receive a warning, then citations, and could even be arrested if they continue to disobey the new law.

“We are trying not to tie up our jail space or tie up our court system with minor petty crimes like that, but we also don’t want our panhandling to get out of hand,” Guillory said.

Parish and city ordinances also make it illegal to panhandle on private property. Guillory and the Lake Charles Police Department say drivers are welcome to report panhandlers if they are causing a distraction along the road.

The intent of the law is for the safety of the panhandler and drivers.

“It is also better for the drivers now so now they are not distracted and worried about if this guy is trying to get in my car, or ‘Who is this guy, and why is he walking up to my window?’ Eventually, our goal is to match those people who need services with people who can provide those services,” Guilloy said.

Local services and organizations that can help those who may otherwise resort to panhandling include:

Abraham’s Tent

2424 Fruge St, Lake Charles, LA 70601

(337) 721-7211

Salvation Army Church

3020 Legion St, Lake Charles, LA 70615

(337) 721-8068

Copyright 2024 KPLC. All rights reserved.