The US administration has announced that it will block funding for several US states if they do not implement new rules for truck drivers to speak English.
The US Department of Transportation announced today, August 26, that California, Washington and New Mexico will lose about $50 million in federal funding if they do not adopt English language proficiency requirements for heavy-duty truck drivers within 30 days.
The move comes after the administration has taken a series of measures against foreign drivers who don't speak English. Last week, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the immediate suspension of work visas for truck drivers from other countries.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that, in addition to withholding funds, other punitive measures could be taken if states fail to comply with the rule.
US federal law requires that truck license candidates pass a written test and be able to identify vehicle parts in English.
However, this standard has raised concerns among drivers who speak English as a second language. They fear they could lose their jobs if they make mistakes in communication or have a heavy accent when questioned by inspectors.