Louisiana House Bill HB747

Louisiana 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/4/16
• Refer: 3/4/16
• Refer: 3/14/16
• Report Pass: 3/29/16
• Engrossed: 4/13/16
• Refer: 4/14/16
• Report Pass: 5/16/16
• Enrolled: 5/19/16
• Chaptered: 5/31/16
• Passed: 5/31/16

Caption

Allows cease and desist orders to be issued to persons contracted or licensed by the Dept. of Public Safety and Corrections, public safety services, to administer skills tests

Impact

The passage of HB 747 is expected to enhance the integrity of the driver testing process across Louisiana. By empowering the Department of Public Safety and Corrections to issue cease and desist orders, the bill seeks to prevent non-compliant entities from operating and thereby increases overall public safety on roadways. This measure could significantly improve the standard of practices in driving tests, ensuring that only qualified individuals obtain commercial driver's licenses, which is crucial for public safety and trust.

Summary

House Bill 747 allows the Department of Public Safety and Corrections in Louisiana to issue cease and desist orders to individuals or businesses that administer driving skills tests in violation of state law. The bill aims to strengthen enforcement against fraudulent practices in the testing process for commercial driver’s licenses. Specifically, it outlines the conditions under which the department can license third-party testers and the penalties for falsifying test results or supporting fraudulent testing practices.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 747 appears to be positive among lawmakers, with the bill receiving unanimous support in a Senate vote. Legislators recognize the importance of maintaining high standards in administering driving tests and preventing fraud, aligning with broader public safety goals. The bill's proponents view it as a necessary step for improving the quality of licensing and reducing risks associated with poorly administered tests.

Contention

While the bill seems to have strong legislative backing, potential points of contention may arise regarding its enforcement mechanisms and the burden it places on third-party testers. Some stakeholders could argue that the rules might create barriers for legitimate testing facilities, fostering concerns about accessibility for driving test applicants. However, the overarching goal of safeguarding public safety through stringent regulations is likely to outweigh these worries.