New English Proficiency Bill Pushes Uniform CDL Rules

English Proficiency Bill Aims to Standardize Language Rules for CDL Drivers

Senator Cynthia Lummis and Senator John Barrasso have introduced an English proficiency bill in the U.S. Senate. The proposal, known as Connor’s Law, would require commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders to meet the same English language standards nationwide.

If passed, the bill would amend Title 49 of the United States Code. It would make English testing a federal law instead of a regulatory guideline.

What the English Proficiency Bill Would Do

The English proficiency bill builds on current rules that already expect CDL drivers to read and speak English.
At present, commercial drivers must be able to:

• Converse with the general public
• Read and understand highway signs in English
• Communicate with law enforcement and inspectors
• Fill out required reports and records

These standards come from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Each state, however, decides how to test and enforce them. The new bill would make those requirements identical across all states by placing them in federal law.

Out-of-Service Orders for Noncompliance

A central provision of the English proficiency bill involves enforcement. Under the proposal, drivers who cannot show basic English proficiency could be placed out of service.

Law enforcement officers would have the authority to prevent a driver from operating until compliance is shown. The bill references Section 391.11(b)(2) of Title 49, which outlines minimum qualifications for commercial drivers.

Addressing State-Level Inconsistencies

The English proficiency bill seeks to address uneven enforcement of existing language standards. Currently, some states include English testing in their CDL process, while others do not.

This difference can create uncertainty for drivers and carriers working across state lines. By establishing a single national standard, the bill aims to create a uniform approach to language requirements for commercial drivers.

Context for the English Proficiency Bill

Supporters of the bill have pointed to communication and safety as reasons for consistent standards. Truck drivers must often interact with law enforcement, read warning signs, and follow detours.

Federal lawmakers say that standardizing language rules may help avoid confusion during inspections or emergencies.

Industry groups, however, have raised questions about how the rule would be implemented and monitored.

Industry Response to English Proficiency Bill

Reaction to the English proficiency bill has been mixed. Safety and enforcement organizations have generally supported the measure as a way to ensure clarity during inspections.

Some carrier groups and driver organizations have expressed concern about its potential effect on the workforce. They note that many experienced drivers are not native English speakers. Tighter language testing could make it harder for them to keep or renew their CDLs.

Others in the industry say the rule could add costs for training programs and compliance testing, particularly for smaller carriers.

Connection to Previous Federal Actions

The proposal follows a recent executive order reaffirming English proficiency as a safety requirement for commercial drivers. That order directed the Department of Transportation to strengthen enforcement of existing rules and allow out-of-service orders for noncompliance.

The English proficiency bill would codify those requirements in law. If passed, future administrations could not change or remove the rule without new legislation.

Legislative Progress

The English proficiency bill has been referred to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. It must pass the committee before going to the full Senate. If approved, the bill would move to the House of Representatives for consideration.

If enacted, FMCSA would update its CDL testing and enforcement procedures. State licensing agencies would also need to revise their programs to match the federal standard.

Potential Impact of the English Proficiency Bill on the Trucking Industry

If the English proficiency bill becomes law, trucking companies may need to review hiring and training practices. Driver schools could be required to provide additional English instruction. Law enforcement officers would likely receive updated guidance for roadside checks.

Some drivers might need new language evaluations before they can operate. Industry representatives have noted that these steps could increase administrative demands for carriers already facing a driver shortage.

Ongoing Debate Over Language Standards

The English proficiency bill represents one part of a broader discussion about federal versus state oversight in commercial trucking. Lawmakers, regulators, and industry groups continue to debate how to balance safety, workforce needs, and administrative feasibility.

As the bill moves through Congress, stakeholders are watching closely to see how it could affect driver testing, training, and enforcement practices across the country.