Federal Threat to Colorado's CDL Program Sparks Nationwide Enforcement Action
The U.S. Department of Transportation is threatening to withhold $24 million in federal funding from Colorado due to a slow response to violations of federal commercial driver’s license regulations. A nationwide audit revealed that about 22% of commercial licenses issued by Colorado to immigrants, particularly Mexican nationals, were done so illegally. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy criticized Colorado for not completing a full audit, providing a complete accounting of affected drivers, or revoking invalid credentials promptly.
Duffy emphasized that Colorado must comply with federal rules to ensure the safety of the driving public. He warned that the Transportation Department could decertify Colorado’s entire CDL program if necessary. Governor Jared Polis’ office has not responded to the allegations or safety concerns raised by the federal government. The Division of Motor Vehicles in Colorado has halted the issuance and renewal of certain CDLs pending an audit to ensure compliance with federal regulations.
In an effort to ensure that truck and bus drivers are qualified, Duffy has threatened federal highway funding for other states as well. New York, California, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Texas, and South Dakota have all received letters from the agency regarding potential violations of commercial driver’s license regulations. The review was prompted by a fatal crash in Florida involving a truck driver who was not authorized to be in the U.S., highlighting the importance of enforcing these long-standing rules.
The Transportation Department’s enforcement of commercial driver’s license regulations has led to the revocation of thousands of improperly issued licenses in California. States are required to verify a driver’s immigration status before issuing a commercial license, a practice that some states may not have been following. It is crucial for states to comply with federal regulations to ensure the safety of all road users.