News Archive

Research by two students at the Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law examines the impact that the state’s driver’s license suspension policies have on the poor. The study, titled “Roadblock to Economic Independence: How Driver’s License Suspension Policies in Indiana Impede Financial Self-Sufficiency, Burden State Government, and Tax Public Resources,” was conducted by students Ryan T. Schwier and Autumn Hempfling. They are students in the law school’s Health and Human Rights Clinic, under the direction of Professor Fran Quigley, ’87.

Their study finds that state laws and procedures related to driver’s license suspensions impact low-income Hoosiers disproportionately. The use of driver’s license suspensions for reasons not related to driving safety, when coupled with the increase in license reinstatement fees, makes it difficult, if not impossible, for the poor to legally regain their licenses. The lack of reliable alternative transportation and the growing suburbanization of jobs means that these suspensions create significant barriers to those trying to maintain employment. In addition to burdening the poor, driver’s license suspension policies have a significant impact on public resources, government administration, and public safety, the report finds.

“As this report shows, driver’s license suspensions and fees often prevent Hoosier parents from getting to available jobs, and Hoosier employers from maintaining a reliable workforce. It is a big problem that has concerned many people across the state, but Ryan and Autumn are the first to dig deep and truly explore all aspects of the issue,” Professor Quigley said. “In this report, they outline the scope of Indiana’s problem, explain how it relates to the national landscape, and make thoughtful recommendations for how lawmakers can solve it. This report is an important contribution to a better future for Indiana families and communities, and I am proud to have our school’s and clinic’s names on it.”  

Professor Quigley is a clinical professor of law. Clinic students advocate for rights on behalf of low-income Hoosiers, and have a special focus on representing low-wage workers.