Over 7,200 semi-truck drivers have been removed from U.S. highways since the introduction of new English proficiency requirements by Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Sean Duffy in May.
“The DOT mandates that commercial truck drivers must be able to speak and understand English to operate large trucks; otherwise, they will be taken out of service,” Duffy stated on X. “This initiative is part of [President Trump]’s effort to enhance safety on America’s roads!”
According to Duffy, nearly 7,250 truck drivers have been sidelined for not meeting the English proficiency standards reinstated by the Trump administration, which had previously been weakened during the Obama administration, allowing foreign truck drivers, who often lack English skills, to operate large trucks on American roads.
The aim of these new standards is to eliminate the black market trucking industry, which often employs low-wage foreign drivers with limited or no English comprehension.
This announcement follows a recent incident in California, where an undocumented immigrant from India is accused of causing the deaths of three Americans on the highway. This individual had obtained a Commercial Driver’s License in California but was reportedly not subject to the English proficiency rules set by the Trump administration, according to Duffy.
“I extend my condolences to the families affected by this tragedy. This incident could have been avoided if California adhered to our new regulations,” Duffy expressed, referencing the case. “California violated the law, resulting in three fatalities and two hospitalizations. Justice is required, and there will be repercussions.”
Duffy is now threatening California with the withholding of millions in federal funds due to its non-compliance with the federal English proficiency standards for Commercial Driver’s Licenses.
