New Mexico officials have responded to recent concerns about the enforcement of English language requirements for commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) in the state. The governor’s office stated that public safety remains a top priority and emphasized confidence in the state’s compliance with federal regulations.
“New Mexico’s top priority is the safety of its residents and visitors, and we are confident that our state laws for commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) are fully compliant with federal regulations,” according to a statement from the Office of New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham.
The process for issuing CDLs in New Mexico includes an English proficiency requirement, which is intended to ensure drivers can read and understand traffic signs. Officials noted that this measure is part of maintaining roadway safety standards.
“New Mexico’s thorough and federally compliant process for issuing CDLs includes a mandatory English proficiency component to ensure drivers can read and understand traffic signs,” the statement said.
Recent claims have surfaced regarding how these regulations are enforced. State officials say they are gathering more information from both federal and state partners. Early reports indicate that only a small number of roadside incidents occurred over three months, possibly involving out-of-state drivers because of the interstate nature of trucking.
“We are aware of recent claims regarding the enforcement of these regulations and are actively seeking more information from the relevant federal and state partners. Initial reports suggest that these claims relate to a small number of roadside incidents over a three-month period. It’s important to note that these incidents may have involved out-state drivers due to the nature of cross-country of our trucking industry,” according to the governor's office.
Officials expect that further review will confirm New Mexico’s adherence to federal law, as well as effective enforcement by state police.
“We are confident that a full review of these incidents will demonstrate that New Mexico is in full compliance with federal law and that our state police are effectively enforcing safety regulations on our roadways. We will continue to work with our partners to ensure the safety of everyone on New Mexico’s roads,” said Gov. Lujan Grisham's office.
