The President of the United States, by virtue of his constitutional authority, has issued an executive order emphasizing the enforcement of the English proficiency requirement for commercial motor vehicle operators to ensure safe and reliable transportation. The order reiterates the necessity for truck drivers to be proficient in English, designated as the national language in a prior executive order, for effective communication and safety on the roads.
The executive order highlights the current federal requirement for commercial vehicle operators to "read and speak the English language sufficiently" to manage conversations with the public, understand traffic signs, respond to inquiries, and maintain records. The administration plans to enforce this requirement stringently, aiming to improve the safety of roadways by ensuring drivers are adequately qualified.
The order directs the Secretary of Transportation, through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), to rescind an existing guidance document from 2016 related to English language proficiency enforcement and to issue new guidelines. These guidelines will redefine inspection procedures to ensure compliance with the language requirement, including possible consequences for violations, such as being placed out-of-service.
Additionally, the directive addresses the security of commercial driver's licenses (CDLs), with the Transportation Secretary tasked to review and improve the verification of both domestic and international commercial driving credentials.
The order also calls for identifying actions to enhance working conditions for truck drivers, stressing the administration's commitment to removing unnecessary regulatory burdens.
"This order will help ensure a safe, secure, and efficient motor carrier industry," the order states, underscoring the intent to support America's truckers and fortify roadway safety through common-sense regulations.
The White House issued the order from Washington, D.C., and its provisions are to be implemented by relevant authorities with respect to applicable laws and budgetary constraints.
