New law requires work authorization and English proficiency for commercial drivers as Alabama intensifies enforcement efforts with ALEA and federal partners.
MONTGOMERY, Ala. | Kay Ivey on Wednesday signed sweeping highway safety legislation designed to tighten enforcement standards for commercial truck drivers and strengthen oversight of the trucking industry across Alabama.
The measure, Senate Bill 242, requires commercial motor vehicle operators in Alabama with foreign commercial driver licenses (CDLs) to possess valid U.S. work authorization and mandates that all CDL holders demonstrate sufficient English-language proficiency to operate safely on American roadways.
The legislation, backed by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and the Alabama Trucking Association, aims to address safety concerns related to unqualified commercial drivers and fraudulent licensing practices.
Standing alongside state troopers and key lawmakers, Governor Ivey framed the bill as a necessary step to protect motorists while maintaining fairness for the state’s trucking workforce.
“Alabama’s economy is booming, and our hardworking truckers play a vital role in keeping goods moving across our state and across this country,” Ivey said. “At the same time, Alabama families travel these same highways every single day, and they deserve to know the rules are being enforced.”
The governor added that drivers who cannot read or communicate in English may be unable to properly interpret highway signage, follow safety protocols, or communicate with law enforcement during emergencies.
