Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) has introduced the Senate version of Connor’s Law, a bill that would require commercial truck drivers to demonstrate basic English proficiency before obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL) in the United States. The legislation seeks to codify an executive order from former President Donald Trump that established similar requirements.
“Wyoming families and travelers deserve safe highways,” said Lummis. “I’m introducing this common sense legislation to ensure commercial truck drivers operating heavy vehicles can simply read signs, understand traffic laws, and communicate effectively with law enforcement and emergency responders. Wyoming is a critical interstate commerce hub, with I-80 as a major shipping corridor. Our challenging road conditions, including high winds, winter storms, and mountains, demand clear communication between drivers and authorities. This legislation will correct the major mistake the Obama administration made in undermining these rules and will codify President Trump’s Executive Order to make our highways safer for all Americans.”
Henry Hanscom, Senior Vice President of Legislative Affairs at the American Trucking Associations (ATA), stated: “The ability to read road signs, understand the rules of the road, and communicate with law enforcement officials is vital to ensuring the safety of all motorists. That’s why English proficiency is a requirement for operating a commercial motor vehicle. We welcomed President Trump’s executive order that provided much-needed clarity, and we commend this effort by Senators Lummis and Barrasso to codify an objective, consistent, and effective standard. ATA stands ready to work with the Administration and USDOT on ensuring there is uniform enforcement and a high standard of safety on our highways.”
Todd Spencer, President of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), also expressed support: “OOIDA and professional truckers across America applaud Senator Lummis for her leadership in taking action to address the long-ignored issue of English proficiency among commercial drivers. The ability to read and communicate in English is not just a matter of convenience, it’s a matter of safety for everyone who shares the road. By ensuring that all truck drivers who operate 80,000 lb. pieces of machinery on public roadways can read signs, and communicate with law enforcement and first responders, this legislation strengthens accountability and helps prevent tragedies before they happen. OOIDA strongly supports efforts that make our highways safer and our industry more professional.”
The House version of Connor’s Law was introduced by Representative David Taylor (OH-02). Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) and Representative Harriet Hageman (R-WY) are listed as cosponsors.
The bill aims to reinforce existing federal regulations by making them law through Congress rather than relying solely on executive orders or administrative rules.
A full text of the bill is available online.
