The tragic death of 18-year-old Connor Dzion in northern Florida underscores a grave issue regarding road safety—a situation that could have been avoided. Dzion lost his life due to the negligence of a truck driver who was distracted and unable to read English. This preventable incident serves as a stark reminder of the repercussions that arise from insufficient enforcement of basic safety regulations. American lives should never be treated as collateral damage in a system that seems more focused on appeasing certain interests than ensuring public safety.
In response to this heartbreaking tragedy, Rep. Dave Taylor and another congressperson proposed Connor’s Law. This legislation aims to enforce longstanding requirements that commercial truck drivers must be proficient in English. The bill would guarantee that those lacking this essential skill are taken out of service, addressing a fundamental expectation that has been compromised in recent years.
According to federal regulations, commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders need to “read and speak the English language sufficiently” to engage with the public, comprehend highway signs, respond to officials, and complete necessary documentation. However, these requirements were undermined in 2016 when the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration quietly removed English-proficiency violations from its out-of-service criteria under the Obama administration. This decision dramatically weakened road safety enforcement at a critical time.
Since then, concerns over increasing accidents involving commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) have risen sharply. Following this alarming trend, one congresswoman began advocating for reinstating the English language proficiency rule. On April 10, 2025, she reached out to the U.S. Secretary of Transportation, highlighting that “it is critical that we take steps to uncover and reevaluate these sorts of concealed policies.” Secretary Duffy’s swift acknowledgment of the need for enforcement was a crucial step toward regaining control of the situation.
Under the Trump administration, new guidance emerged requiring inspectors to assess drivers’ English language skills during roadside checks. Specific actions, such as verbal interviews and sign recognition tests, were introduced to evaluate whether drivers could adequately communicate in English. Furthermore, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance has reinstated English proficiency failures as official out-of-service violations. Though this policy shift represents progress, inconsistencies in state enforcement continue to pose a significant challenge.
The introduction of Connor’s Law would not only reinforce these standards into law, but it would also provide clarity for state and federal authorities. This clear guidance is critical in fostering a safer driving environment for everyone on the road. Such regulations become even more urgent when one considers the case of an undocumented driver involved in a crash that resulted in three fatalities while trying to make an illegal U-turn. Such incidents highlight the dangers posed when drivers cannot comprehend important safety instructions due to language barriers.
In Wyoming, the repercussions of allowing non-English speaking drivers on the highways have hit close to home. A recent tragedy added another layer to this ongoing issue. Just last December, Tyeler Harris lost his life, and Tiffany Gruetzmacher sustained serious injuries at the hands of a driver who failed to grasp essential instructions due to a lack of English proficiency. Such incidents raise serious questions over the safety of non-English speaking drivers, especially when they navigate complex road conditions that rely on clear communication.
Variable-message signs (VMS), which display vital information about changing weather, hazards, and road closures, emphasize the importance of having proficient drivers. When drivers cannot read these signs, they may encounter danger without understanding the risks present on the road. Every motorist deserves the peace of mind that comes with knowing that those driving massive trucks can interpret crucial traffic regulations and respond appropriately in emergencies.
Connor’s Law aims to prevent future tragedies by ensuring the lives lost are not in vain. The legislation seeks to correct the lapses in safety and restore the enforcement of necessary regulations for commercial truck drivers. As more states recognize the importance of clear communication on the road, passing this law can help uphold the safety of American highways. A well-regulated driving environment is essential for everyone—ensuring drivers are capable of understanding signs and responding effectively is a key component of that safety.
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