House Bill No. 438, introduced by Representative Ventrella, aims to enhance public safety by creating the crime of unlawful operation of a commercial motor vehicle. The bill enacts a new section, R.S. 14:97.3, which stipulates that individuals who do not meet the qualification requirements outlined in 49 CFR Part 391 are prohibited from operating commercial motor vehicles in Louisiana. The legislation also defines "commercial motor vehicle" in accordance with existing law, R.S. 32:401.

Penalties for violating this new law include a fine of up to $500 for a first offense, with subsequent offenses resulting in fines of up to $1,000. This structured approach to penalties is intended to deter unlawful operation and ensure compliance with safety regulations for commercial drivers.