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Bill

HR 5656

To amend title 49, United States Code, to grant the United States Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico eligibility to issue commercial driver's licenses, and for other purposes.

119th Congress Introduced by Chuck Edwards and 1 co-sponsor

HR 5656 allows Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands to issue commercial driver's licenses, boosting local economies and improving transportation services.

Referred to the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit.
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Bill Summary · HR 5656

Summary of HR 5656: Eligibility for Commercial Driver's Licenses in U.S. Territories

Bill Number: HR 5656
Introduced: September 30, 2025
Status: Introduced in House
Primary Sponsor: Stacey E. Plaskett
Cosponsor: Chuck Edwards

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HR 5656 is to amend Title 49 of the United States Code to extend eligibility for issuing commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) to the United States Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. This legislative change aims to enhance the transportation capabilities within these territories, ensuring that residents can obtain necessary licenses to operate commercial vehicles.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several important amendments to existing law:

  1. Eligibility for CDLs:

    • The amendment to Section 31301(14) of Title 49 explicitly adds the United States Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico to the list of jurisdictions eligible to issue commercial driver's licenses.

  2. Apportionment of Funds:

    • Section 165(c) is amended to ensure that funds allocated to the United States Virgin Islands are treated as required for apportionment under the relevant sections of Title 49. This provision is crucial for maintaining financial support for transportation infrastructure in these territories.

  3. Compliance Support:

    • The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is tasked with assisting the United States Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico in achieving full compliance with Chapter 313 of Title 49 and associated regulations. This support is essential for ensuring that the territories meet federal standards for commercial driving.

  4. Temporary Funding Relief:

    • For a period of five years following the enactment of this bill, the United States Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico will not face penalties related to the withholding of federal funds due to non-compliance with certain requirements under Section 31311(a) of Title 49. This provision aims to provide a grace period for these territories to align with federal regulations without the immediate threat of funding cuts.

Impact

  • Who is Affected:

    • The bill directly impacts residents of the United States Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, particularly those seeking to obtain commercial driver's licenses. It also affects local governments and transportation agencies in these territories, as they will gain the authority to issue CDLs and receive federal support for compliance.

  • Potential Benefits:

    • By granting CDL eligibility, the bill is expected to improve local economies by facilitating better transportation services and job opportunities in the commercial driving sector. Additionally, the temporary funding relief will allow these territories to focus on compliance without the immediate pressure of financial penalties.

Legislative Actions

  • September 30, 2025: The bill was introduced and referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure for further consideration.

Conclusion

HR 5656 represents a significant step towards enhancing transportation infrastructure and commercial driving capabilities in the United States Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. By amending federal law to include these territories in CDL eligibility and providing necessary support and funding relief, the bill aims to foster economic growth and improve transportation services in these regions.

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

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