Safer Truckers Act of 2025
Summary
The Safer Truckers Act of 2025 aims to amend Title 49 of the United States Code, focusing on commercial driver's license (CDL) requirements. It proposes that CDLs be restricted to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and individuals authorized by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services for employment involving commercial motor vehicle operation. The bill also includes reporting requirements for states to ensure compliance and enforcement of English-language proficiency for commercial drivers.
Expected Effects
This act would change who is eligible to obtain a CDL. States would need to verify the citizenship or immigration status of CDL applicants. Additionally, states would be required to report their policies and actions related to enforcing English-language proficiency requirements for commercial drivers.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced national security by ensuring drivers are authorized to work in the US.
- Potential improvement in road safety due to stricter requirements.
- Increased job opportunities for US citizens and legal residents in the trucking industry.
- Standardized enforcement of English language proficiency.
- Better tracking of CDL holders' legal status.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential labor shortages in the trucking industry if the pool of eligible drivers is significantly reduced.
- Increased administrative burden and costs for states to verify citizenship and immigration status.
- Possible discrimination claims if the implementation is not carefully managed.
- Potential disruption to supply chains if a significant number of drivers are disqualified.
- Could face legal challenges based on immigration laws and equal opportunity.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the federal government's power to regulate immigration and interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8). The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states or the people; however, the federal government has a clear role in regulating interstate commerce, which includes the trucking industry. The bill does not appear to infringe on individual liberties protected by the Bill of Rights, provided that the implementation is non-discriminatory and respects due process.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).