Florida Bills Crack Down on Illegal Truck Drivers

Florida Bills Could Bring Major Changes for Truck Drivers

Florida lawmakers are reviewing two bills during the 2026 legislative session that would change several state laws tied to unauthorized aliens. The measures, House Bill 1307 and Senate Bill 1380, cover driver licensing, employment rules, workers’ compensation, insurance claims, and financial transactions.

While the proposals are not limited to trucking, several sections directly affect truck drivers, owner-operators, and motor carriers operating in Florida. Both bills use nearly identical language and are moving through the Legislature as companion measures.

Driver Licensing Would Be Limited to English Only

One major change involves how Florida issues driver licenses. Under the bills, all driver licensing steps would have to be completed in English. This includes classroom instruction, written exams, and testing procedures.

The legislation clearly bans interpreters, translated materials, and other language assistance. This requirement would apply to anyone seeking a driver license under state law. It would also apply to commercial driver licensing processes handled by the state.

Employers Face New Work Eligibility Rules

The bills expand employer duties related to work eligibility. Employers would be required to verify a worker’s legal employment status before filing a workers’ compensation claim.

The legislation references use of the E-Verify system. Employers would need to keep records proving verification was completed. These records would have to be provided to the state Department of Financial Services if requested.

These requirements would apply to trucking companies and other transportation employers statewide.

Florida Workers’ Compensation Liability Could Increase

Another section focuses on workplace injuries. If an employer hires or employs an unauthorized alien, that employer would be personally responsible for medical and treatment costs tied to any injury.

The bills do not allow the employer to shift those costs to another party. Penalties would apply for violations. Confirmed violations would also be forwarded to state licensing authorities.

For motor carriers, this provision could increase financial risk if employment checks are not handled properly.

Florida Clarifies Employee and Owner-Operator Status

The legislation updates Florida’s definition of an “employee” under workers’ compensation law. The definition continues to include individuals who are lawfully or unlawfully employed. It also keeps detailed rules for who is not considered an employee.

Owner-operators working under written contracts with motor carriers remain a key focus. The bills outline when an owner-operator is not treated as an employee. These conditions include control over equipment, responsibility for fuel and repairs, and clear contract terms.

These rules are important for carriers that rely on independent contractors.

Florida Creates Presumption of Fault in Certain Crashes

One provision addresses motor vehicle accidents in Florida. The bills create a presumption of fault against unauthorized out-of-state drivers involved in crashes.

Law enforcement officers would be required to note this presumption on crash reports. They would also need to notify the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles within a set timeframe.

Insurance companies would have to apply the presumption when handling claims. Insurers would not be able to pay or settle claims unless the presumption is overturned with clear and convincing evidence. This could affect crash claims involving commercial trucks traveling through the state.

Licensing and Financial Services Restrictions

The bills also limit certain licenses issued in the state. The Florida Department of Financial Services would be prohibited from issuing licenses or certifications to unauthorized aliens.

New requirements would also apply to financial transactions. Certain payments, including foreign remittance transfers, would require proof of citizenship or lawful status. Financial institutions could face audits and penalties for violations.

Truck drivers and carriers who rely on licensed services or payment systems could see indirect effects from these changes.

Florida Housing Program Changes

Several housing programs are addressed in the legislation. Down payment assistance and similar programs would be limited to people who are lawfully present in the United States.

If an unauthorized alien receives assistance, repayment would be required. If repayment does not occur, foreclosure action could follow. The Florida Homeownership Assistance Program and the Florida Hometown Hero Program would both be updated to reflect these eligibility limits.

These changes could affect truck drivers who rely on state-backed housing assistance.

Legislative Outlook for Trucking in Florida

House Bill 1307 and Senate Bill 1380 remain under review by Florida lawmakers. Both bills are expected to be reviewed by multiple committees in their respective chambers. During this stage, lawmakers may debate the language, propose amendments, or revise specific sections.

If the bills clear committee review, they would move to the full Florida House and Florida Senate for floor votes. Each chamber must pass its version of the legislation. If differences exist between the two bills, lawmakers would need to resolve them before final approval.