Sen. Jim Banks Introduces “Dalilah’s Law” Following State of the Union Address

Following President Trump’s mention of “Dalilah’s Law” in the State of the Union address, Jim Banks formally introduced the legislation in the U.S. Senate.

The bill would make federal Department of Transportation funding contingent on states limiting Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs) to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and specified visa holders. It would also require CDL knowledge and skills exams to be administered only in English and mandate nationwide recertification for all current CDL holders within 180 days of enactment.

The proposal would require states to verify citizenship, lawful status, or qualifying visa eligibility during recertification and revoke licenses from individuals who do not meet the new federal standards. States that do not comply could risk losing federal transportation funding.

Senator Banks introduced the legislation after the President’s remarks about the 2024 crash involving five-year-old Dalilah Coleman. Supporters cite the incident as central to the effort, arguing that clearer eligibility criteria and consistent enforcement are needed to improve accountability in the commercial driver licensing system.

If enacted, Dalilah’s Law would become statutory federal law, not agency guidance or regulatory policy that can be changed administratively. Its provisions would take effect immediately, with the 180-day recertification period as the main implementation window.

The legislation is expected to prompt significant debate in both chambers, especially concerning administrative feasibility for state licensing agencies, enforcement capacity, implementation timelines, and potential effects on the commercial driver workforce.

CVTA will continue to monitor the legislation as it progresses and will engage with policymakers on CDL eligibility standards, enforcement consistency, and training oversight.