Trump Threatens Trucking Funds for States Over Language Testing

Aug. 26, 2025, 1:45 PM UTC

California, New Mexico and Washington are at risk of losing a cumulative $46 million a year in federal trucking safety funds after the Trump administration accused the states of flouting English-language rules for commercial drivers.

US Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy gave the three states 30 days to comply with a federal mandate requiring truck drivers to demonstrate basic English-language proficiency. The ruling calls for drivers to be able speak the language, as well as be able to read and comprehend road signage in English.

The three states collectively received more than $46 million in fiscal 2023 through the ...

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