CVTA Statement on Rep. Crockett's Judiciary Committee Hearing Remarks

Representative Jasmine Crockett (TX-30)

The Commercial Vehicle Training Association (CVTA) expresses serious concerns regarding Rep. Jasmine Crockett’s recent remarks at a House Judiciary Committee hearing, which suggested that English language proficiency is not required to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle.

Equating the operation of an 80,000-pound commercial vehicle with driving a passenger car abroad misrepresents the responsibilities and risks of professional driving. Safe operation of commercial trucks requires drivers to read and understand roadway signs, weather alerts, enforcement instructions, and emergency communications.

CVTA Chairman Jeff Burkhardt, based in Texas, emphasized that these remarks are especially concerning given the significance of trucking to Texas’s economy and roadway safety.

“Operating a commercial motor vehicle is not analogous to renting a passenger vehicle while traveling abroad,” said Burkhardt. “A CDL represents a promise to the public that the person behind the wheel of an 80,000-pound vehicle is trained, qualified, and accountable. English language proficiency is not only required by law, but it is also fundamental for meeting driver workplace responsibilities and protecting everyone sharing the road. Frankly, her statements are an insult to the American truck driver.”

At the same hearing, Chris Spear, President and CEO of the American Trucking Associations, affirmed that English language proficiency has long been a federal requirement and remains essential for safety. ATA later reiterated that trucks do not stop or maneuver like passenger vehicles and that consistent enforcement of English proficiency standards is necessary to save lives. You can watch the video clip of the exchange, including Mr. Spear’s response, here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kx_Y4aCoXbg 

CVTA continues to call for consistent, nationwide enforcement of existing safety requirements. Weakening these standards undermines public trust in the CDL and puts motorists, first responders, and professional drivers at unnecessary risk.