New rules for truck drivers are being created quickly. Lawmakers in many states and at the
federal level are making changes due to safety concerns. Last year, the Federal Motor Carrier
Safety Administration (FMCSA) said that commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) issued to people
who don’t live in the U.S. are a major safety concern.
The FMCSA also told states to stop giving CDLs to people who don’t live in the U.S. unless they
follow the rules. Some states had to fix their problems. Now, more states are making new laws
for these CDLs.
Arizona
Arizona is making even stricter rules. A new law could soon require truck drivers with CDLs from
outside Arizona or other countries to show legal documents if stopped by police. If they can’t,
they could be fined $500. Police could also take away the truck and its cargo until all fines are
paid. The truck owner would have to pay the bills.
Senator Frank Carroll said CDLs should be subject to strict rules. He warned that some states
let drivers keep their CDLs even after their visas expire. He said this is against the law.
Carroll said some states put regular expiration dates on CDLs and ignore visa limits. He said
this breaks the rules and can lead to crashes. Carroll wants drivers with expired visas to lose
their licenses so they can’t drive.
The Arizona House Committee already approved the new law. Next, the full House will vote.
Then the governor will decide if it becomes law.
Idaho
Idaho is also making new rules. A new law will stop giving CDLs to people who don’t live in
Idaho. If someone wants a CDL from Idaho, they must become a resident and follow all the
normal steps. The law also removes any exceptions for non-residents.
Representative Clay Handy said Idaho will no longer issue CDLs to non-residents. If drivers
want a CDL from Idaho, they must move there. Some people say this makes it very hard for
out-of-state or foreign drivers to get an Idaho CDL.
The new law starts on July 1.
Missouri
Missouri is also working on implementing safer truck-driving rules. A new bill would make sure
truck drivers with CDLs from other countries have a work visa and proof of citizenship. Drivers
who violate the rules could be fined up to $1,000 or be sentenced to up to 90 days in jail. They
would not be able to drive in Missouri until they show the right documents.
Trucking companies could be fined $3,000 if they use illegal drivers. After paying the fines,
another qualified driver can move the truck. The bill was recently approved by a committee and
is awaiting further votes.
