House Pushes CDL Language and Citizenship Requirements in Dalilah's Law

Key Details The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee is considering H.R. 5688, known as Dalilah's Law, which aims to strengthen Commercial Driver's License standards. Rep. David Rouzer (R-NC) introduced updated legislation ahead of a March 18 committee markup session to address gaps in current CDL requirements. Why It Matters The bill is named after Dalilah Coleman, a child injured in a multi-truck crash involving driver Partap Singh. Singh obtained his CDL from California despite being in the U.S. illegally, later arrested by ICE. This case highlights the dangers of insufficient CDL vetting processes. What Changes Dalilah's Law would strengthen English language proficiency enforcement and impose stricter standards for non-domiciled CDLs. The legislation builds on recent Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) actions to increase enforcement and close loopholes exploited by unscrupulous carriers seeking cheaper labor. Industry Support The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) endorsed the updated bill, stating it closes loopholes in the non-domiciled CDL program. OOIDA President Todd Spencer noted the explosion in non-domiciled CDLs in recent years and praised the Trump administration's focus on road safety. The legislation reinforces FMCSA's recent final rule cracking down on states issuing CDLs to poorly vetted applicants.