President Trump Issues Executive Order Addressing English Proficiency Requirement
Originally published by Scopelitis, Garvin, Light, Hanson & Feary
Yesterday afternoon, President Donald Trump signed an executive order (EO), “Enforcing Commonsense Rules of the Road for America’s Truck Drivers,” addressing the requirement for commercial truck drivers to demonstrate English proficiency under the Federal Motor Carriers Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). Under the EO, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is directed to take action to ensure drivers who violate the proficiency requirement in 49 U.S.C. § 391.11(b)(2) will be placed out-of-service by roadside enforcement.
The EO rescinds the 2016 guidance issued by the FMCSA, which had relaxed the enforcement of English proficiency standards. The 2016 guidance allowed drivers to use interpreters, cue cards, and phone apps to demonstrate English proficiency, and removed the out-of-service requirement for violations. The new EO will reinstate the requirement that enforcement personnel place drivers who do not meet the English proficiency standard out-of-service. The EO explains its goal is to enhance roadway safety by ensuring that all drivers can effectively read road signs, communicate with safety officials, and follow critical instructions.
If you have questions about this development, please contact Greg Feary, Tim Wiseman, Chris Eckhart, or Prasad Sharma.
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