Trump demands truck drivers speak English: signs order to "protect public safety"
President Donald Trump signed an executive order requiring truck drivers to demonstrate English proficiency to operate on U.S. roads. The measure, announced by Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, seeks to improve communication between truckers and law enforcement, arguing that language barriers pose a risk to public safety.
"We're going to make sure our truckers, who are the backbone of our economy, can speak English," Leavitt said during a press conference at the White House.
“This is a common-sense policy in the United States.”
The executive order directs the Department of Transportation to implement English literacy tests for truck drivers. Leavitt explained that there are "communication problems between truckers on the road and federal and local officials," which poses a risk to public safety.
Possible discrimination?The measure has drawn criticism from civil rights organizations and trucking unions, who argue that it could discriminate against immigrant workers and exacerbate the industry's driver shortage. However, the administration Trump argues that the policy is necessary to ensure road safety and promote linguistic integration.
The signing of this executive order comes amid a series of actions by President Trump aimed at strengthening national security and promoting "common-sense" policies, according to White House statements. Leavitt noted that the president has signed more than 45 executive orders in recent weeks, addressing issues ranging from education to border security.
When does the new regulation come into effect?The implementation of English language tests for truck drivers will take effect in the coming months, according to the Department of Transportation. The measure is expected to have a significant impact on the trucking industry , especially among foreign-born drivers.
The Trump administration has emphasized that this policy seeks to strengthen highway safety and ensure that all drivers can communicate effectively with law enforcement and other road users. “ It's a matter of safety and common sense,” Leavitt concluded.
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