U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has put a halt to all employment visas for commercial truck drivers, citing safety concerns and the impact on American livelihoods. This decision comes after a tragic accident involving Harjinder Singh, an Indian national who entered the country illegally in 2018. Singh’s dangerous U-turn maneuver in a restricted area led to a fatal crash on the Florida Turnpike, claiming the lives of three Americans.
Rubio’s announcement highlighted the growing number of foreign drivers operating on U.S. roads, which he described as endangering American lives. He noted, “The increasing number of foreign drivers operating large tractor-trailer trucks on U.S. roads is endangering American lives and undercutting the livelihoods of American truckers.” This freeze on visas is meant to enforce stricter safety standards and review current licensing protocols.
The incident involving Singh revealed critical gaps in safety measures. Reports indicate that he struggled with basic English comprehension, failing to demonstrate adequate language skills during a proficiency assessment. This raises essential questions about how individuals like Singh obtained their Commercial Driver’s Licenses in sanctuary jurisdictions, which Rubio and the Department of Homeland Security aim to address. “DHS will work with [U.S. Department of Transportation] to root out and prevent illegal aliens from obtaining these licenses from sanctuary jurisdictions that put American drivers and passengers in danger,” the agency stated.
The directive applies broadly to all foreign truck drivers and will remain in effect until a thorough review is conducted. This policy shift by Rubio signifies a deliberate move to enhance road safety and uphold immigration standards, showcasing a commitment to addressing both immediate safety concerns and the welfare of American truckers. The overarching message is clear: in the face of growing risks, the U.S. government is prioritizing the safety of its citizens and the integrity of its immigration policies.
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