U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) introduced legislation that would require CDL drivers to demonstrate fundamental English skills in order to receive the licenses in the United States.
Lummis said the legislation would codify President Donald Trump’s Executive Order on April 28 that required that truck drivers be able to read, write and converse in English.
“They should be able to read and understand traffic signs, communicate with traffic safety, border patrol, agricultural checkpoints, and cargo weight-limit station officers,” the executive order said. “That is why Federal law requires that, to operate a commercial vehicle, a driver must ‘read and speak the English language sufficiently to converse with the general public, to understand highway traffic signs and signals in the English language, to respond to official inquiries, and to make entries on reports and records.’ Yet this requirement has not been enforced in years, and America’s roadways have become less safe.”
The legislation would require English proficiency for any driver who wants to qualify for a CDL license and take away the licenses of those who don’t qualify. Similar legislation has also been introduced in the House, Lummis’ office said.
“Wyoming families and travelers deserve safe highways,” said Lummis. “I’m introducing this common-sense legislation to ensure commercial truck drivers operating heavy vehicles can simply read signs, understand traffic laws, and communicate effectively with law enforcement and emergency responders. Wyoming is a critical interstate commerce hub, with I-80 as a major shipping corridor. Our challenging road conditions, including high winds, winter storms, and mountains, demand clear communication between drivers and authorities.”
The American Trucking Association approved of the legislation.
“The ability to read road signs, understand the rules of the road, and communicate with law enforcement officials is vital to ensuring the safety of all motorists. That’s why English proficiency is a requirement for operating a commercial motor vehicle,” ATA Senior Vice President of Legislative Affairs Henry Hanscom said. “ATA stands ready to work with the Administration and USDOT on ensuring there is uniform enforcement and a high standard of safety on our highways.”