Transportation Secretary Duffy Cracks Down on States Over Immigrant CDL Practices
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy is taking a bold stance against states that issue commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) to non-citizens without proper checks on their immigration status and English language proficiency. His recent statement has made waves on social media, where he called such practices “reckless,” particularly in states led by Democrats.
“We are NOT gonna have it!” Duffy declared in a tweet that gained significant traction. He made it clear that non-compliant states could face a loss of federal funding, which adds urgency to a larger campaign by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) aimed at tightening CDL eligibility across the nation.
The issue centers around foreign-born drivers failing to meet essential safety standards. In some cases, these drivers have expired visas or lack the necessary English skills to operate large vehicles, which raises significant safety concerns. Notably, California has come under scrutiny for improperly issuing over 17,000 CDLs, with another 44,000 licenses potentially eligible for revocation under forthcoming federal regulations. Washington state has admitted to mistakenly issuing nearly 700 standard CDLs to non-citizens over seven years.
“What our team has discovered should disturb and anger every American,” Duffy expressed during a September press briefing. He highlighted the dangers posed by foreign drivers who lack proper training or the ability to comprehend road signage, explaining that this situation constitutes a direct threat to public safety.
The crackdown began last April when the Trump administration introduced new federal rules. These rules mandate that all CDL applicants must pass an English language test and verify their legal status using the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) database. In September 2023, the DOT issued emergency regulations detailing compliance deadlines, amplifying the pressure on non-compliant states.
Audits have shown alarming practices in some states, where CDLs were issued despite the applicants being illegally present in the U.S. Duffy underscored the seriousness of the situation by referencing tragic incidents linked to inadequately licensed drivers. For instance, a recent crash in Ontario, California, involved a driver who was in the country illegally and charged with vehicular manslaughter after killing a father and daughter. Such events point to the potentially catastrophic ramifications of lax licensing practices.
According to officials, a second tragic incident in Florida further exemplified the risks associated with this issue. A truck driven by an individual with limited English skills, who possessed CDLs from both California and Washington, resulted in the deaths of three people. Testing revealed his inability to comprehend traffic signs, solidifying concerns over driver safety.
These incidents have ignited considerable debate. Duffy asserted, “Every governor SHOULD say they want to have a safe road and drivers. This should be a no-brainer,” pushing back against blue states accused of neglecting important public safety measures.
Federal funding is at stake. California could lose $160 million in Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program funds, a significant financial hit, especially as it grapples with its own driver shortage. States like Washington and Colorado are already reevaluating their licensing systems under federal scrutiny, and the fallout from audits and compliance requirements is likely to reshape the landscape of commercial driving.
Industry experts have echoed Duffy’s concerns about the link between English proficiency and highway safety. Todd Spencer, President of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, stated that “basic English skills are critical for safely operating a commercial motor vehicle.” His comments underscore the consensus that driving an 80,000-pound vehicle without the ability to read road signs poses an unacceptable risk.
However, the data on immigrant drivers and their involvement in accidents paints a nuanced picture. Some experts argue that flaws in driving performance are more closely related to factors such as fatigue and distraction, rather than immigration status alone. Still, officials maintain that the licensing systems must be improved to ensure safety across the board.
As the DOT continues to ramp up enforcement, states are being urged to submit corrective compliance plans within 30 days or risk losing funds and facing further audits. Duffy has made it clear that failure to comply could lead to a complete suspension of the pertinent licensing programs.
His remarks resonate with a broader narrative, particularly as Duffy criticized what he perceives as a preference for illegal migrants over the safety of American citizens. As federal officials push for reforms, states must act swiftly to address these licensing issues, balancing public safety with regulatory compliance.
In this charged atmosphere, the stakes are high, and the road ahead will require significant adjustments. The emphasis on safety and proper licensing serves as a critical element in the ongoing debate over immigration and public policy.
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