By JOSH FUNK
Funding Withheld Over Language Requirements
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced on Wednesday that he will withhold $40 million from California, the only state failing to enforce English language proficiency requirements for truck drivers.
Investigation Following Fatal Accident
An investigation into a tragic crash in Florida, involving a foreign truck driver who made an illegal U-turn on August 12, revealed serious lapses in California’s enforcement of regulations that went into effect in June, following an executive order from President Donald Trump. Despite these rules existing prior to the crash, California had issued a commercial license to the driver.
Concerns Raised Over Driver’s Qualifications
Duffy stated that truck drivers should be disqualified if they cannot prove English proficiency and mentioned that the driver involved in the incident ought not to have received a commercial license due to his immigration status. The crash has sparked a political debate, with California and Florida governors exchanging criticisms, and Duffy emphasizing immigration issues in various interviews.
California’s Response and Safety Claims
Duffy criticized California, asserting it is the only state not ensuring that large truck drivers can understand road signs and communicate effectively with law enforcement, deeming this a critical safety risk. In response, California defended its practices, noting that its commercial truck drivers have a crash rate lower than the national average.
Federal Requirements for Funding Reinstatement
The Transportation Department stated that California must implement regulations to enforce the English language requirements and ensure that inspectors test drivers’ English skills during roadside checks. Additionally, Duffy has threatened to withdraw another $160 million due to issues surrounding the state’s commercial driver license issuance processes.
The Crash and Ongoing Legal Issues
The accident resulted in three deaths when truck driver Harjinder Singh made an illegal U-turn, and a minivan collided with his trailer. Singh, who was not injured, is currently held without bond on charges of vehicular homicide and immigration violations. His lawyer has not commented on the situation.
Political Backlash and License Validity
The case has drawn significant attention due to Singh’s immigration status and claims he failed an English proficiency test afterward. Duffy and Florida officials have criticized both California and Washington state for issuing Singh a commercial driver’s license, while California maintains he had a valid work permit and communicated effectively during a traffic stop in New Mexico prior to the incident. The political exchange continues as both states address the controversy surrounding Singh’s driving eligibility.
