H.R. 6071: Safer Truckers Act of 2025

The "Safer Truckers Act of 2025" is a proposed piece of legislation that aims to amend the current requirements for obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL) in the United States. The main objectives of the bill are outlined as follows:

Residency Requirements for Commercial Driver’s Licenses

The bill proposes that only certain groups of people are eligible to receive a commercial driver’s license. Specifically, it establishes the following criteria:

• Individuals must be a citizen of the United States.
• Individuals must be lawful permanent residents of the United States.
• Individuals must be authorized by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to work in the U.S. in positions that involve operating a commercial motor vehicle.

Amendments to Title 49 of the U.S. Code

To enforce these new restrictions, the bill proposes amendments to Section 31308 of Title 49 in the U.S. Code, which governs commercial driver’s licenses. The amendments are meant to clarify who can legally obtain a CDL and ensure that licensing standards are consistent across states.

Reporting Requirements

The bill also introduces new reporting requirements for states regarding compliance with the CDL issuance criteria. It states that:

• States must report to the Secretary of Transportation on their policies and actions to enforce the new residency and authorization requirements.
• The first report must be submitted within 180 days of the enactment of the bill, with annual reports due each year thereafter.

English-Language Proficiency Requirements

Additionally, the bill requires states to uphold and enforce English-language proficiency standards for commercial drivers, aligning with existing federal regulations. States are also expected to report on their efforts in this regard.

Impact and Enforcement

The bill is designed to enhance the safety and integrity of commercial driving by ensuring that all drivers meet specific citizenship and residency qualifications. By tightening these requirements, the bill aims to potentially reduce safety risks associated with commercial vehicle operation.

Relevant Companies

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