Connor’s Law
- Sponsor
- Sen. Lummis, Cynthia M. [R-WY]
- Committees
- Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Oct 8, 2025
Bottom line
This bill codifies and strengthens existing English proficiency requirements for commercial truck drivers, adding an explicit out-of-service penalty for non-compliance to enhance road safety.
What it actually does
This bill amends federal law to explicitly require commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers to possess sufficient English language skills to converse with the general public, understand highway traffic signs, respond to official inquiries, and make entries on reports. It also mandates that any CMV operator found non-compliant with these language requirements by an authorized enforcement officer shall be immediately declared out of service.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that clear and explicit English proficiency is crucial for public safety on highways, enabling CMV drivers to effectively communicate in emergencies, understand critical traffic information, and interact with law enforcement. They contend that explicitly codifying these requirements and adding an immediate out-of-service penalty will enhance road safety and ensure operational clarity, preventing accidents caused by communication barriers.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that existing regulations already address English proficiency and that this bill adds unnecessary redundancy or could disproportionately impact immigrant drivers who are otherwise qualified. They might also contend that an immediate out-of-service order could lead to logistical disruptions and economic hardship for drivers and companies without significantly improving safety beyond current enforcement practices, potentially leading to subjective enforcement.
The bill is very short and straightforward, making it highly accessible for a quick read and understanding of its core provisions.
Section 2(a)
Requiring Minimum English Language Skills for Commercial Motor Vehicle Operators
This provision amends title 49, United States Code, to explicitly require commercial motor vehicle drivers to be able to read and speak the English language sufficiently. This includes the ability to converse with the general public, understand highway traffic signs and signals in English, respond to official inquiries, and make entries on reports and records. This formalizes and expands upon existing regulatory requirements.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that clear and explicit language requirements are essential for safety, ensuring drivers can communicate effectively in emergencies, understand critical instructions, and interact with law enforcement, thereby reducing accident risks and improving overall road safety.
Critics contend
Critics might argue that existing regulations already cover this requirement and that explicitly codifying it could be seen as redundant or potentially discriminatory if not implemented carefully, creating unnecessary barriers for otherwise qualified drivers, particularly those from non-English speaking backgrounds.
Tradeoffs
This provision balances the desire for enhanced public safety through clear communication against potential burdens on a diverse workforce and the possibility of redundant regulation if existing enforcement is deemed sufficient.
Section 2(b)
Immediate Out-of-Service Order for English Proficiency Noncompliance
This section mandates that any commercial motor vehicle operator found by an authorized enforcement officer to be non-compliant with the specified English language proficiency requirements (referencing 49 CFR 391.11(b)(2)) shall be immediately declared 'out of service.' This means the driver cannot continue operating the vehicle until the issue is resolved, providing an immediate enforcement mechanism for violations.