Missouri CDL Bill Adds English Requirement, New Penalties & Fines

Missouri CDL Bill Introduces English Requirement, New Penalties

Missouri lawmakers are moving forward with a bill that would change several rules for commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs). The Missouri CDL proposal focuses on English language skills, work authorization, and new penalties for violations.

The measure is known as House Committee Substitute for House Bill 2741. It would update state laws that apply to commercial drivers and motor carriers operating in Missouri.

Missouri CDL English Language Requirement for Drivers

The bill would require all commercial drivers to show that they can understand and use the English language.

Drivers must be able to speak and read English well enough to do several tasks. These include talking with the public, understanding road signs, responding to law enforcement, and filling out reports.

If a driver cannot meet these requirements, penalties would apply. A first offense would be a class D misdemeanor. A second offense would be a class B misdemeanor. A third or later offense would be a class D felony.

Drivers in violation would also be placed out of service. They would not be allowed to operate a commercial vehicle in Missouri until they meet the language requirement.

The bill also sets fines. Drivers would face a $1,000 fine for each violation. Motor carriers would face a $3,000 fine for each violation involving their driver.

Missouri CDL Violations: Vehicle and Cargo Handling Rules

The bill explains what happens when a driver is removed from service.

The motor carrier would be told where the vehicle is located. The carrier would need to pay the fine and send a qualified driver to take control of the truck.

If the carrier cannot act within 12 hours, the cargo owner may step in. The owner can arrange to move the freight to another vehicle.

The bill states that the state and the cargo owner would not be held responsible for reasonable actions taken during the transfer.

Missouri CDL Work Authorization Requirements for Drivers

The bill also sets rules for work authorization.

All commercial drivers in Missouri would need to be allowed under federal law to work as a commercial motor vehicle operator in the United States.

If a driver operates without proper authorization, it would be considered unlawful. The penalties would increase with repeat offenses. A first offense would be a class D misdemeanor. A second offense would be a class B misdemeanor. A third or later offense would be a class D felony.

In some cases, the penalty could be more severe. If the violation is found after a major traffic offense, it would be treated as a felony. These offenses include driving under the influence, driving at very high speeds, or driving the wrong way on a highway.

Drivers who break this rule would be placed out of service. They would stay out of service until they can show that they meet federal work rules.

Rules for Motor Carriers and Penalties

The bill places new duties on motor carriers.

Carriers would need to make sure their drivers are allowed to work under federal law. This would apply to every driver they dispatch in Missouri.

If a carrier allows a driver who is not authorized to operate, the company would face a large fine. The minimum penalty would be $15,000 per violation.

The fines increase in serious cases. If the violation leads to serious injury, the penalty would be at least $25,000. If it leads to a death, the penalty would be at least $50,000.

The bill also includes rules for repeat violations. A second violation within five years could lead to a suspension of operating authority for up to one year. A third violation could result in a full loss of the right to operate in Missouri.

Rules for Nondomiciled Drivers

The bill includes rules for drivers who hold non-domiciled CDLs.

These drivers would need to carry proof of legal work status or citizenship while operating a commercial vehicle. Acceptable documents include a valid work visa, passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate.

Drivers who do not have proper documents could be removed from service. They could also face fines or other penalties if they continue to operate.

Motor carriers that employ these drivers would also face penalties. Each violation would result in a $3,000 fine.

Missouri CDL Application and Licensing Updates

The bill also keeps and clarifies current Missouri CDL rules.

Applicants would still need to provide basic personal information. This includes their name, address, physical description, Social Security number, and date of birth. They would also need to list states where they held a license in the past ten years.

Drivers must also show that they are lawfully present in the United States before receiving a CDL.

License terms would continue to vary. Some drivers would receive shorter license periods based on age or endorsements. This includes drivers with hazardous materials endorsements and older drivers.

Missouri would also continue to issue nondomiciled CDLs under federal guidelines.

Impact on Truck Drivers and the Industry

If passed, the Missouri CDL bill would create stricter rules for drivers and carriers in the state.

Drivers would need to meet clear standards for English skills and work authorization. Failing to meet these standards could lead to fines, criminal charges, and being placed out of service.

Motor carriers would also face higher risks. They would need to check driver status more closely. Violations could lead to large fines or even loss of operating authority.

The bill aligns with federal safety rules. At the same time, it adds new state-level enforcement that could change daily operations for drivers and companies working in Missouri.