CVTA Statement Supporting Trump Administration’s "Dalilah Law" from the State of the Union Address

The Commercial Vehicle Training Association (CVTA) applauds President Trump for highlighting “Dalilah’s Law” during his State of the Union address and for elevating the urgent need to strengthen safety and accountability within the commercial driver licensing system.

“For too long, gaps in oversight, inconsistent enforcement, and exploitation of regulatory loopholes have placed American motorists at risk and undermined reputable CDL training providers. Dalilah’s Law represents an important step toward restoring integrity to the system by ensuring that only legally authorized, properly trained, and properly licensed drivers are operating commercial motor vehicles on our nation’s highways,” said CVTA Chairman Jeff Burkhardt

Professional truck drivers operate 80,000-pound vehicles alongside families every day. The standards governing who is eligible to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), how they are trained, and whether they are qualified to work in the United States must be clearly and consistently enforced. Delilah’s Law reinforces the principle that highway safety cannot be compromised and that compliance with federal training, licensing, and employment requirements is non-negotiable.

In a recent statement, House Transportation & Infrastructure Chairman, Rep. Sam Graves said, “I also commend the President for proposing the ‘Dalilah Law,’ legislation to prevent states from issuing commercial driver's licenses (CDL) to illegal aliens and increase safety on our roads. It’s only commonsense that truck drivers and people operating with CDLs in the U.S. should be able to read English and understand our laws, road signs, and law enforcement officers.”

CVTA has long supported stronger oversight of driver training providers, enforcement against bad actors, and clear English-language proficiency and eligibility standards at the earliest stages of licensure. By elevating these concerns at the highest level, President Trump has underscored what industry professionals and safety advocates have long understood: meaningful reform protects not only the motoring public but also the integrity of legitimate training institutions and the hardworking drivers who meet the rules.

We stand ready to work with the Administration and Congress to ensure that Dalilah’s Law is implemented effectively, strengthens accountability, and upholds the highest standards of safety and professionalism in the commercial motor vehicle industry. Listen to the President here: