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U.S. Senator Roger Marshall of Kansas introduced the Commercial Motor Vehicle English Proficiency Act.
On June 18, 2024, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall of Kansas introduced the Commercial Motor Vehicle English Proficiency Act (CMV), with the support of Senators John Barrasso and Cindy Hyde-Smith. This legislation seeks to strengthen enforcement of the English language requirement from the moment applicants begin the process of obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
Previously, former President Donald Trump issued an executive order requiring all commercial vehicle drivers in the United States to be proficient in English, under penalty of being placed out of service if they fail to meet this requirement. This order is scheduled to take effect nationwide on June 25, 2024.
Unlike the executive order, which applies to drivers who already hold a commercial license, the CMV Act would require English proficiency as a prerequisite for obtaining a CDL.
Commercial Motor Vehicle English Proficiency Act
According to a statement released by Senator Marshall, the CMV Act would amend Title 49 of the United States Code. If passed, the legislation would require CDL applicants to demonstrate the ability to read and understand the English language. This includes reading road signs, communicating with law enforcement in English, and being able to give and receive instructions in English.
Additionally, the bill would prohibit the administration of CDL exams in any language other than English. While several states currently allow applicants to take these exams in other languages, this option would be eliminated under the proposed law.
Marshall’s bill differs from other recent state and federal initiatives aimed at reinforcing English language requirements for commercial drivers in that it seeks to prevent non-English speakers from ever obtaining a CDL. Whereas other regulations focus on ensuring compliance among existing commercial drivers, the CMV Act targets the licensing process from the outset.
Senator Marshall defended his proposal by stating, “Common sense tells us that anyone driving on American roads—especially those operating large trucks and trailers—must be able to understand road signs and communicate with law enforcement.” He further emphasized that English proficiency is not just a practical matter but a critical safety issue.
Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith expressed her pride in working alongside Senator Marshall to reinstate what she described as an essential safety standard.
If approved, the law would take effect two years after its official enactment.
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