The Trump administration has warned California, Washington, and New Mexico that they risk losing tens of millions in federal highway safety funds if they continue to defy federal rules requiring commercial truck drivers to demonstrate English proficiency. The U.S. Department of Transportation issued the warning after a deadly crash involving a non-English-speaking driver who was in the country illegally.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced the enforcement measure after the August 12 crash in Florida that killed two people. The driver, Harjinder Singh, was charged with vehicular homicide and is accused of operating without legal immigration status or basic English comprehension. Officials said Singh should never have been licensed to drive a commercial vehicle in the U.S.
The Department of Transportation is threatening to withhold approximately $50 million in total funding through the Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program (MCSAP). California stands to lose $33 million, Washington could lose $10.5 million, and New Mexico $7 million if they fail to comply within 30 days.
Federal audits revealed lax enforcement of English proficiency standards in all three states. California conducted over 34,000 inspections but removed only one driver for an English-related violation. Washington documented over 6,000 safety violations yet only pulled four drivers from service. New Mexico reported no drivers taken out of service for language issues.
Governor Gavin Newsom’s office pushed back, blaming the federal government for previously approving the driver’s work permit. The Trump administration dismissed the accusation, citing state-level failure to properly enforce safety rules. Washington and New Mexico have not issued formal responses.
The American Trucking Associations voiced support for the administration’s move, stating that basic English skills are essential for public safety, effective communication with law enforcement, and understanding road signage.
The crackdown reflects broader efforts by the Trump administration to tie federal funding to state compliance on safety and immigration enforcement. By linking highway funds to regulatory adherence, the administration is reinforcing the principle that public safety must take priority over political resistance.
