Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy recently made headlines during a press conference, delivering a stark warning to Pennsylvania regarding its issuance of commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) to illegal aliens. Duffy asserts that if the state does not “immediately revoke” those licenses, it risks losing $75 million in federal funds. This announcement follows the arrest of an illegal alien from Uzbekistan, who allegedly has ties to terrorism and was found operating a truck with a Pennsylvania-issued CDL.
The urgency of Duffy’s message is underscored by the potential dangers of unqualified drivers on America’s roads. “Our message to Pennsylvania is simple: immediately stop issuing licenses illegally to dangerous, foreign truck drivers… or we’ll pull $75 million in federal funds,” Duffy stated. His comments reflect growing concern over safety and national security issues surrounding the CDL issuance practices of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT).
The Department of Transportation has indicated that its nationwide audit revealed systemic failures in Pennsylvania’s licensing system. Duffy’s remarks paint a picture of negligence that endangers public safety. “Under President Trump, this Department is taking every measure to ensure dangerous foreign drivers aren’t illegally operating 40-ton vehicles on American roads,” he emphasized.
The audit found that Pennsylvania issued non-domiciled CDs to ineligible foreigners without verifying their immigration status. A specific case highlighted by the Department involved a suspected terrorist who was permitted to obtain a CDL despite his illegal status in the country. The Department of Homeland Security noted, “Bozorov illegally entered the United States in February 2023 and was RELEASED into the country by the Biden administration.” This statement bridges the gap between immigration policy and public safety, framing the issue in broader terms of national security.
Duffy’s demands for corrective actions are firm. Pennsylvania is urged to halt the issuance of all new, renewed, transferred, or upgraded licenses until comprehensive audits are completed. Furthermore, the state must void any non-compliant licenses, taking immediate steps to remove unqualified drivers from the roads. Duffy’s assertive approach comes as part of an ongoing effort to tighten regulations on CDLs, which he believes is vital to protecting American families.
This situation in Pennsylvania follows a pattern seen in other states; California has also been singled out by Duffy for allegedly issuing a high number of illegal CDL permits. His stance highlights a commitment to ensuring that all drivers meet strict legal and safety standards, an aim consistent with federal traffic safety regulations initiated under the Trump administration.
By connecting the issues of illegal immigration to the regulations governing commercial truck drivers, Duffy is framing this ongoing crisis as crucial to both public safety and national security. His administration’s actions stress the need for states to be vigilant and adhere strictly to federal licensing protocols.
As Duffy continues to advocate for changes, the federal funding decision looms as a decisive leverage point aimed at ensuring compliance from Pennsylvania and other states with similar issues. The outcome of this conflict will not only impact Pennsylvania’s budget but also the broader implications on safety protocols across the nation.
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