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Bill

HR 3608

Connor’s Law

119th Congress Introduced by Jim Baird and 21 co-sponsors

Connor’s Law mandates English proficiency for commercial drivers to enhance road safety, ensuring they understand signs and can communicate effectively, reducing accident risks.

Referred to the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit.
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Bill Summary · HR 3608

Summary of HR 3608 - Connor’s Law

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HR 3608
Title: Connor’s Law
Introduced: May 23, 2025
Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit
Sponsors: Mr. Taylor (primary), with multiple cosponsors including Ms. Hageman, Mr. Collins, and others.

Purpose and Intent

Connor’s Law aims to amend Title 49 of the United States Code to establish minimum English language proficiency requirements for drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). The intent is to enhance safety on the roads by ensuring that CMV operators can effectively communicate in English, which is essential for understanding traffic signs, responding to official inquiries, and completing necessary documentation.

Key Provisions

  1. Minimum Language Skills Requirement:

    • The bill amends Section 31308(1) of Title 49 to include a new subparagraph (C) that mandates CMV operators to:
      • Converse with the general public.
      • Understand highway traffic signs and signals in English.
      • Respond to official inquiries.
      • Make entries on reports and records.

  2. Out-of-Service Orders for Noncompliance:

    • The bill stipulates that any individual operating a CMV who is found noncompliant with the English proficiency requirement will be declared "out of service" by an authorized enforcement officer.
    • It clarifies that this declaration does not affect other out-of-service orders that are governed by existing federal laws or regulations.

Impact

  • Affected Parties:

    • The legislation primarily impacts commercial motor vehicle operators and enforcement agencies responsible for ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
    • It may also affect trucking companies and transportation firms that employ CMV drivers.

  • Safety Implications:

    • By ensuring that drivers can communicate effectively in English, the bill aims to reduce the risk of accidents caused by misunderstandings of traffic laws and regulations.

Legislative Timeline

  • May 23, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
  • May 24, 2025: Referred to the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit for further consideration.

Conclusion

Connor’s Law seeks to improve road safety by establishing clear language proficiency requirements for commercial drivers. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications for driver training and compliance enforcement will be closely monitored by stakeholders in the transportation industry.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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