(INDIANAPOLIS) - Indiana has enacted a new law that requires commercial truck drivers to demonstrate English proficiency for CDL drivers from outside the United States.
Governor Mike Braun signed House Enrolled Act 1200 into law, which requires all commercial driver's license holders to pass CDL knowledge and skills tests in English or American Sign Language.
The law also requires the Bureau of Motor Vehicles to revoke non-domiciled CDL's if a driver loses legal authorization to remain in the United States. State officials must coordinate with federal agencies to verify immigration status when necessary.
Under this new law, non-domiciled CDL's issued before March 1 will expire April 1 unless the driver holds a valid H-2A, H-2B or E-2 visa.
The legislation also increases penalties tied to fraudulent commercial licenses. Presenting a fake or foreign CDL without proper documentation is now a Level 6 felony. Violations can result in a $5,000 fine for the driver and a $50,000 fine for an employer. A separate $50,000 penalty can also be issued to any business that trains a driver for a CDL while knowing the individual is not eligible for a license in Indiana.
Indiana lawmakers say the changes come amid growing concern about deadly crashes involving semi-truck drivers who lack proper documentation.