H.R.3608 - Connor’s Law (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3608, also known as Connor's Law, aims to amend Title 49 of the United States Code to strengthen English proficiency requirements for commercial motor vehicle operators. The bill mandates that drivers must be able to read, speak, and understand English sufficiently to converse with the public, understand traffic signs, respond to inquiries, and complete reports. It also stipulates that drivers not meeting these requirements will be declared out of service.
The bill seeks to enhance safety by ensuring that commercial drivers can effectively communicate and understand instructions while operating vehicles. This is achieved by amending section 31308(1) of title 49, United States Code.
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on May 23, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of Connor's Law will be to raise the bar for English language proficiency among commercial motor vehicle operators. This will likely lead to increased scrutiny and testing of drivers.
Drivers who do not meet the new standards will be prohibited from operating commercial vehicles until they demonstrate adequate proficiency. This could potentially reduce the pool of eligible drivers in the short term.
In the long term, it is expected to improve communication and safety on roads, reducing accidents related to language barriers.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced road safety due to improved communication between drivers, law enforcement, and the public.
- Reduced likelihood of accidents caused by misunderstanding traffic signs or instructions.
- Improved ability of drivers to respond to emergencies and communicate effectively with first responders.
- Increased accountability and professionalism among commercial motor vehicle operators.
- Greater public confidence in the safety standards of the transportation industry.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for driver shortages if a significant number of current drivers fail to meet the new English proficiency standards.
- Increased costs for trucking companies to provide language training or replace drivers.
- Possible discrimination claims if the testing process is not fair and equitable.
- Logistical challenges in implementing and enforcing the new requirements across different states and jurisdictions.
- Could disproportionately affect drivers for whom English is a second language, even if they have years of safe driving experience.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to promote public safety on roads. By ensuring that commercial drivers can understand and respond to traffic signs and official inquiries, the bill seeks to reduce accidents and improve overall safety for all citizens.
There is no apparent conflict with individual liberties or rights, as the requirement for English proficiency is directly related to the safe operation of commercial vehicles. The bill does not infringe upon freedom of speech or any other protected right.
However, care must be taken to ensure that the implementation of the law does not lead to discriminatory practices, which could potentially raise concerns under the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).