None of the listed offenses are universally crimes (in the US): Speeding is frequently an infraction (eg, http://www.co.thurston.wa.us/distcrt/traffic.htm). Underage drinking is often legal (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legal_drinking_age). Having a couple of drinks will almost never put you above the legal BAC (http://www.drunkdrivingdefense.com/general/bac.htm, http://www.ohsinc.com/drunk_driving_laws_blood_breath%20_alc...). Marijuana use is decriminalized in many states (although it remains a federal crime) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legality_of_cannabis#United_Sta...).

Agreed. Like calling tax collectors "terrorist". What then do we call those who blow up schools?

Since when are murderers on the same level as people who speed?

Similar to "branded felons" there is also a group of "branded debtors." These are people living near the poverty line that credit card companies lure into huge debts. And since companies do not hire "branded debtors" (people with bad credit) there is a similar cycle of discrimination: inability to find work to pay debts and so on.

> And since companies do not hire "branded debtors"

SOME companies don't. Others do. And some will hire for some jobs but not others.