Introduction to Dalilah’s Law
WASHINGTON — Trucking organizations are supporting “Dalilah’s Law,” a proposed legislation that seeks to prevent states from granting commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) to undocumented immigrants.
Details of the Legislation
Introduced by Senator Jim Banks, this law would impose penalties by threatening to withdraw funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) for states that do not comply.
Senator’s Statement
Senator Banks expressed, “Too many people have been hurt and killed. Americans suffer because illegal drivers are given CDLs and control 80,000-pound trucks. This must end. Dalilah’s Law clarifies that those here illegally cannot obtain a CDL. We need immediate action.”
Aim for Road Safety
The law aims to improve road safety by requiring that CDLs are issued only to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and specific visa holders, along with mandating English-only testing.
Impact of the Legislation
The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association noted that “for years, dishonest carriers have abused the ‘non-domiciled’ CDL program to hire the cheapest labor, compromising safety.” They state that Dalilah’s Law strengthens the recent actions of the USDOT and FMCSA against issuing licenses to unvetted applicants.
The Story Behind the Law
Dalilah Coleman, a five-year-old, suffered life-changing injuries in a crash caused by an illegal immigrant driving a truck in June 2024. Though she survived, she now faces permanent neurological damage.
Support from the Trucking Community
OOIDA President Todd Spencer stated that the law closes loopholes that allow unqualified individuals to obtain a CDL via the ‘non-domiciled’ program. The legislation enforces English proficiency standards and strengthens the certification process for driver training providers, thereby enhancing overall highway safety.
