Prohibits a person who is not sufficiently proficient in the English language from operating a commercial motor vehicle.

Requires DOT to deny the issuance or renewal of a CDL or CLP if the person applying for or renewing the CDL or CLP fails to demonstrate proficiency in the English language, as required.
Requires the DOT to examine the English language proficiency of each person who applies for initial issuance or renewal of a CDL or CLP. The examination must require the person to demonstrate the person is able to read and speak the English language sufficiently to converse with the general public, to understand highway traffic signs and signals in the English language, to respond to official inquiries, and to make entries on reports and records, pursuant to federal regulations. The DOT must administer the examination in a computer-based format. The bill prohibits a person who is not sufficiently proficient in the English language from operating a CMV. Violation is a misdemeanor punishable by a $1,000 fine and imprisonment not to exceed one year.

A commercial motor carrier is prohibited from employing or engaging the services of a commercial driver, including as an independent contractor, who is not sufficiently proficient in the English language. A violation of this provision commits a misdemeanor and is subject to a civil penalty ranging from $3,000 to $10,000 based on the number of violations, to be imposed and is punishable by confinement for no more than one year and a fine of at least $430 but not more than $2,500.

Provides notice requirements regarding violations and provisions for a person who is sufficiently proficient in the English language to take possession of a stopped CMV or transfer the cargo to another CMV.

Limits liability for damages that result from the tow or impoundment of a CMV if the driver did not possess sufficient English language proficiency.

Pending House action. Companion to SF 2426.

02/23/2026 Introduced in House and placed on calendar.
02/26/2026 House Amendment H-8054.
02/28/2026 Fiscal Note received.
03/02/2026 Fiscal note received.