Transportation Secretary Threatens Funding Cuts Over Truck Driver Language Proficiency
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that California, Washington, and New Mexico could lose federal funding if they fail to enforce English Language Proficiency (ELP) requirements for commercial truck drivers within 30 days.
Duffy emphasized the necessity for truck drivers to understand road signs and communicate with law enforcement. “This is about keeping people safe on the road,” he stated, noting that drivers must be able to properly interpret essential information while operating large vehicles.
If non-compliance continues, California could lose $30 million, Washington $10 million, and New Mexico $7 million under the Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program (MCSAP).
Since the ELP standards took effect, California has conducted around 34,000 inspections but has only identified one driver who faced consequences for language-related violations. Washington reported 6,000 safety rule violations but only four drivers were removed for English language issues, and New Mexico recorded no such removals.
Duffy's actions follow the crash of an undocumented truck driver, Harjinder Singh, which resulted in three fatalities. Singh, who entered the U.S. illegally in 2018, faces multiple charges after fleeing to California post-incident. Investigators found Singh struggled with basic English communication and road sign recognition.
“Follow the rules established by @USDOT in your state or there will be serious consequences,” Duffy warned.
Federal records indicate Singh obtained commercial licenses in both Washington and California despite his undocumented status, raising concerns about the certification process in these states.
An investigation is ongoing.