Arkansas Bill Could Make Non US Citizen Truckers Illegal to Drive in the State

Arkansas Bill HB1569: Stricter Rules for Immigrant Truck Drivers

A new bill in Arkansas, House Bill 1569 (HB1569), proposes major changes for commercial truck drivers. Named the Secure Roads and Safe Trucking Act of 2025, the Arkansas bill would create new rules that mainly affect noncitizen drivers. It would also increase penalties for trucking companies that hire drivers who do not meet the bill’s requirements.

Some groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Arkansas, oppose the bill. They argue that it unfairly targets immigrants and creates new problems for trucking companies.

Arkansas Bill HB1569 Introduces New Criminal Offenses for Noncitizen Truck Drivers

HB1569 introduces four new criminal offenses. These laws would apply only to noncitizen drivers who operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in Arkansas.

1. Driving a Commercial Vehicle Without a U.S. CDL

• All commercial drivers must have a commercial driver license (CDL) issued by a U.S. state, territory, or possession, the District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico.
• Noncitizen drivers without this type of CDL will face a $5,000 fine.
• The truck they are driving will also be impounded.

2. Causing Injury While Driving a Commercial Vehicle

• A noncitizen driver who causes bodily harm in an accident could face felony charges.
• Even a minor injury could result in at least six months in prison.

3. Causing a Fatal Crash While Driving a Commercial Vehicle

• A noncitizen driver involved in a fatal accident could be charged with vehicular homicide.
• This offense carries a minimum prison sentence of ten years.

4. Not Meeting English Language Requirements

• The bill requires commercial drivers to read road signs, understand traffic signals, and communicate in emergencies.
• A driver who fails to meet these requirements could be fined $5,000.
• Some critics say this rule could also impact people with disabilities or speech impairments.

More Liability for Trucking Companies

HB1569 would not only target drivers. It also places new penalties on trucking companies.

Hiring or Leasing Trucks to Ineligible Drivers

• If a trucking company gives a commercial vehicle to a driver who does not meet the bill’s requirements, it could be fined up to $10,000.
• The bill does not clearly state whether companies are liable only after a violation or if they must check drivers in advance.
• This could create new risks for trucking businesses.

How Arkansas Bill HB1569 Could Affect Truck Drivers

Fewer Job Opportunities for Immigrant Drivers

If this bill becomes law, many immigrant truck drivers could lose their jobs. Some drivers might be unable to meet the new CDL or English proficiency requirements. 

This could discourage legal immigrants from joining the trucking industry. Many noncitizen drivers already meet CDL and safety standards. However, the extra penalties could make it harder for them to stay in the industry.

Increased Fear of Penalties

Even experienced drivers could be at risk under HB1569. A minor accident that causes a small injury could result in felony charges and possible jail time. This could create fear among truckers, leading to added stress and difficulty in hiring new drivers.

Language Proficiency Requirements Could Create Confusion

Federal regulations already require drivers to have basic English skills. However, HB1569 does not clearly define what “sufficient proficiency” means. Some drivers who struggle with spoken English but can read and write fluently could still face penalties.

This could also impact truckers who have speech disabilities, hearing impairments, or other medical conditions that affect their ability to communicate in certain situations.

Arkansas Bill HB1569: Impact on the Trucking Industry

Fewer Available Drivers

Many trucking companies depend on immigrant drivers to fill open positions. If HB1569 becomes law, Arkansas companies may have a tough time hiring enough drivers.

Some trucking businesses may choose to avoid Arkansas altogether. Large carriers that operate across multiple states could redirect shipments through other routes. This could affect the state’s economy and reduce freight movement in Arkansas.

Higher Operating Costs for Trucking Companies

Carriers could face increased costs due to fines and legal risks. Companies would need to spend more time and money verifying drivers’ backgrounds to avoid penalties. Small trucking businesses, which may not have the resources for extensive background checks, could be hit the hardest.

The law’s vague language about liability also creates uncertainty. Carriers might face lawsuits if they unknowingly hire a driver who later commits a violation under the new rules.

Potential Legal Challenges

HB1569 may also face lawsuits from trucking companies and civil rights organizations. Critics argue that it unfairly singles out immigrants and creates penalties beyond what federal law requires.

If challenged in court, the bill could be struck down. Federal agencies like the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) set national standards for truck driver licensing and safety. Arkansas’ new rules could conflict with these federal regulations.

Looking Ahead

Arkansas HB1569 introduces strict rules for noncitizen commercial drivers. Supporters say it will improve road safety. However, opponents believe it unfairly targets immigrants and places heavy burdens on trucking companies.

If passed, the bill could reduce job opportunities for immigrant drivers. It may also create legal risks for carriers and lead to lawsuits over potential discrimination. The trucking industry will be watching closely as this bill moves forward in the Arkansas legislature.