Sean Duffy Cuts $40M from California Over Trucker English Language Rules

Transportation Secretary Duffy Takes Bold Action on Funding

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has made a significant move by withholding over $40 million in federal highway safety funding from California. This decision, announced on October 16, stems from the state's failure to enforce English language proficiency requirements for commercial truck drivers. Duffy's action reflects the Trump administration's commitment to ensuring safety on American roads by enforcing existing federal guidelines that have been overlooked in certain jurisdictions.

During his appearance on 'The Ingraham Angle,' Duffy expressed his frustration with California's non-compliance, emphasizing that the rule is not new but has been on the books for years. He highlighted the importance of communication on highways, where truck drivers must be able to read signs, understand instructions, and interact with law enforcement to prevent accidents and ensure public safety.

Focus on English Proficiency for Truck Drivers

At around the 2:30 mark of the discussion, Duffy elaborated on the rationale behind the English proficiency mandate. He pointed out that the ability to communicate effectively is critical in the trucking industry, especially when navigating complex road systems or responding to emergencies. The Department of Transportation (DOT) has identified California as the primary state failing to adhere to these federal standards, prompting this substantial funding cut as a means of accountability.

Duffy also referenced earlier warnings issued to states like California, Washington, and New Mexico, noting that he had put them on notice over the summer. 'I put states on notice this summer: enforce the Trump Administration’s English language requirements or the checks stop coming,' he stated, underscoring his resolve to uphold the policy. This latest action specifically targets California due to its persistent refusal to comply, setting a precedent for other states to follow federal directives.

Concerns Over Non-Domiciled Commercial Driver's Licenses

Another key issue raised during the segment, around the 5:10 timestamp, was the problem of non-domiciled commercial driver's licenses (CDLs). Duffy expressed concern over loopholes that allow individuals who are not permanent residents to obtain CDLs without meeting stringent requirements, including language proficiency. He described recent DOT measures to close these gaps, ensuring that only qualified drivers operate commercial vehicles on American highways.

The Transportation Secretary linked this issue to broader safety concerns, citing instances where inadequate communication skills have contributed to dangerous situations on the road. By addressing non-domiciled CDLs, the administration aims to protect American citizens from preventable accidents caused by drivers who may not fully understand critical safety protocols or traffic regulations.

Administration's Commitment to Road Safety

Throughout the interview, which can be viewed in full on the Fox News YouTube channel, Duffy reiterated the Trump administration's dedication to prioritizing the safety of American roads. He framed the withholding of funds as a necessary step to compel compliance, rather than a punitive measure. 'You can play all the games you want, but not at the expense of American lives,' Duffy asserted, reflecting a no-nonsense approach to enforcement.

The decision to pull $40 million from California has sparked discussions about the balance between state autonomy and federal oversight. However, Duffy and the DOT remain steadfast in their position that safety standards must be uniformly applied across the nation. This funding cut serves as a clear message to other states that federal rules are not optional when it comes to protecting the public.

Broader Implications of the Policy

The impact of this decision extends beyond California, as it sets a tone for how the Trump administration will handle non-compliance with federal transportation policies. Duffy's actions align with a broader push to strengthen regulations that directly affect public safety, ensuring that all drivers operating large commercial vehicles are adequately prepared to do so. The focus on language proficiency is seen as a practical step toward reducing misunderstandings that could lead to catastrophic outcomes on busy highways.

As this policy unfolds, the administration continues to monitor compliance in other states previously warned about similar issues. The message from Secretary Duffy is unequivocal: safety is paramount, and federal funding will be tied to adherence to these critical standards. This development marks a significant chapter in the ongoing effort to maintain order and security on America's roads under the current leadership.