On February 25, Arkansas legislators introduced the Secure Roads And Safe Trucking Act Of 2025 (HB1569) into the state legislature, sponsored by Rep. Wayne Long, Sen. John Payton, and Rep. Jon Eubanks.
The proposed bill outlines several new requirements for the operation of commercial vehicles within the state:
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It mandates that all commercial vehicle drivers must have a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) issued by the United States, the District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico. The legislation specifically excludes those holding B-1, B-2, or B-1/B-2 combination visas from operating commercial vehicles in Arkansas, with violations leading to vehicle impoundment and a $5000 fine for the operator. Additionally, the bill would terminate reciprocity for Canadian commercial driver’s licenses.
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Commercial vehicle drivers are required to prove their proficiency in the English language, demonstrating their ability to read and understand road and warning signs, interpret traffic control devices, and effectively communicate during emergencies with emergency services, law enforcement, and other drivers. Failing to prove English language proficiency could also result in a $5000 fine.
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The bill introduces a new criminal charge termed “criminal use of a commercial vehicle.” This applies if a non-citizen without a U.S.-issued CDL causes bodily harm to another while driving a commercial vehicle, classifying it as a Class D Felony with a minimum incarceration period of six months.
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Further, the legislation specifies that if such a driver causes a fatal accident, they could be charged with a Class B Felony, which carries a minimum sentence of ten years in prison.
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Trucking companies that employ drivers without proper credentials face severe financial penalties, with a fine of $10,000 levied for such infractions.
HB1569 also declares a public safety emergency, which would enable its immediate implementation upon passage.
The bill has been sent to the House Committee on Public Transportation for further consideration.
