The Federal Government is withholding $160 million from California due to delays in canceling 17,000 commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) issued to immigrants. This decision follows a 2025 audit that raised concerns regarding the validity of these licenses.
Deadline Imposed on California
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has mandated that California revoke these licenses by Monday. The California Department of Motor Vehicles recently announced a 60-day extension on the cancellation date affecting many truck drivers in the state, particularly impacting communities of Sikhs and Hispanics.
Significance of Commercial Driver’s Licenses
- Approximately 1,200 to 1,400 students enroll in CDL training programs annually at the Advanced Career Institute in Fresno.
- Yockey states that the outreach involves working with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to address licensing process issues by March 6, 2026.
Impact on Truck Drivers
Thousands of truck drivers now face potential license revocation. According to Yockey, many individuals who possess legal employment rights in the U.S. may still lose their ability to hold a CDL. This crackdown arises from recent federal safety concerns triggered by fatal accidents involving commercial vehicles.
Federal Safety Regulations and Audits
Last fall, new federal guidelines imposed stricter regulations on commercial truck drivers. Yockey noted that previous audits of training schools revealed improper practices, leading to some schools shutting down. The current administration wants to ensure that non-citizen drivers have required employment visas and clear federal immigration status checks.
Considerations for California’s Economy
Steve Gordon, the director of the California DMV, emphasizes the crucial role commercial drivers play in the state’s economy. He remarked that without these drivers, supply chains could be disrupted, impacting community connectivity.
As California navigates these challenges, an ongoing dialogue between state officials and federal agencies remains essential for resolving the issues surrounding commercial driver licensing and ensuring safety on the roads.
