This bill amends R.S. 32:409.1(A)(6)(d) to enhance the requirements for issuing, renewing, upgrading, or transferring commercial driver's licenses and commercial learner's permits in Louisiana. Specifically, it establishes that, starting November 18, 2024, the Department of Motor Vehicles must conduct a check with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse for all applications. If the department finds that an applicant is prohibited from operating a commercial motor vehicle, it is mandated to deny the issuance, renewal, upgrade, or transfer of the permit or license.

Additionally, the bill outlines that if the department receives notification from the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse regarding an applicant's prohibition, it must take action to downgrade or disqualify the commercial driver's license or learner's permit in accordance with existing laws. The bill also clarifies that an inadvertent issuance of a commercial driver's license or learner's permit to an ineligible applicant will not be considered a breach of duty by the department.

Statutes affected:
HB589 Original: 32:1(A)(6)
HB589 Engrossed: 32:1(A)(6)
HB589 Reengrossed: 32:1(A)(6)
HB589 Enrolled: 32:1(A)(6)
HB589 Act : 32:1(A)(6)