Friday, March 13, 2026
Indiana and the entire U.S. have seen an increase in dangerous and deadly accidents caused by illegal immigrants in recent years. This year, Senate Republicans supported a bill that will help ensure the safety of travelers through the Crossroads of America.
As the nation's first law addressing illegal immigrants driving commercial trucks, House Enrolled Act 1200 requires individuals to pass an English skills test to receive their commercial driver's license.
Every road sign in Indiana is written in English, including digital signs that give drivers important information about construction zones, slow traffic and accidents ahead. To understand these warnings and keep everyone on the road safe, drivers simply must be able to read English.
HEA 1200 also requires the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles to conduct periodic checks with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to ensure only those with legal documentation have a CDL. If a CDL holder does not have the proper information, their license will be revoked.
Training schools and employers can also face penalties for allowing illegal immigrants to operate a commercial motor vehicle. CDL training schools and employers who violate the law by helping ineligible people get their license or falsifying a license can be subject to a $50,000 fine and criminal penalty.
Senate Republicans remain dedicated to ensuring the safety of all Hoosier communities and roads, and HEA 1200 is a step in the right direction.
