Louisiana Bans Using Cash for Sales of Second Hand Goods

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Saturday, October 22, 2011

Louisiana Bans Using Cash for Sales of Second Hand Goods

Louisiana residents buying used goods such as clothing, furniture and household items can no longer do so with cash, under a new state law signed by Governor Bobby Jindal on July 1.

State representative Rickey Hardy, who co-authored the legislation, said the intention is to make it easier for law enforcement to catch criminals who steal items and sell them at second-hand stores.

Some business owners are upset over the new restriction, saying that they’re being unfairly targeted by the government.

Attorney Thad Ackel Jr. says the legislation infringes on economic freedom.

“This legislation amounts to a public taking of private property without due process or compensation,” Ackel wrote. “Regardless of whether or not the transaction information is connected with, or law enforcement is investigating a crime, individuals and businesses are forced to report routine business activity to the police.”

Those impacted by the law include Goodwill stores, flea markets and anyone who holds a garage sale. Pawn shops have been exempted and can continue accepting cash from customers.

-Noel Brinkerhoff

Law Bans Cash for Second Hand Transactions (KLFY-TV, Lafayette)

Government Takes Private Property Without Due Process (by Thad Ackel Jr., Ackel & Associates)

Comments

Lonnie in Oklahoma 13 years ago

so now when a thief steals something valuable, he will be sure to travel further away to sell it out of state where we still use cash.

Eric Riley 13 years ago

just two things to note: 1) "the intention is to make it easier for law enforcement to catch criminals who steal items and sell them at second-hand stores" and 2) "pawn shops have been exempted and can continue accepting cash from customers" just where do they think the bulk of stolen items are dumped? goodwill and garage sales? really? although the argument against, "this legislation amounts to a public taking of private property without due process or compensation" is profoundly stupid - since no-one's property is taken.

sean a 13 years ago

and recyclables? they going to start issuing $.05 checks for the plastic 2-litre?

Steven Simmons 13 years ago

too bad they can't enforce it, all federal reserve notes have "this note is legal tender for all debts, public and private". i'm sure there will be a court battle first time they try to enforce it.

Brendan Bartholomew 13 years ago

this law will certainly make life harder for poor people. i guess those who don't have credit cards or the ability to write a check aren't really human in the eyes of louisiana lawmakers.

Patricia Myers 13 years ago

what will garage sales do?

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Louisiana Bans Using Cash for Sales of Second Hand Goods

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