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Bill

HB 1745

TO REQUIRE CERTAIN COMMERCIAL DRIVER LICENSE HOLDERS TO POSSESS A UNITED STATES WORK AUTHORIZATION; TO REQUIRE THE OPERATOR OF A COMMERCIAL MOTOR VEHICLE TO HAVE ENGLISH PROFICIENCY; AND TO CREATE RELATED OFFENSES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Justin Boyd and 18 co-sponsors

Act 604 requires Arkansas commercial drivers to have valid work authorization and English proficiency, enhancing safety and legal standards for road operations.

Notification that HB1745 is now Act 604
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1745

Summary of House Bill 1745 (Act 604)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1745, now known as Act 604, aims to enhance the regulatory framework governing commercial driver license (CDL) holders in Arkansas. The bill mandates that certain CDL holders possess a valid United States work authorization and demonstrates proficiency in the English language while operating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) within the state. This legislation is designed to ensure that all drivers meet specific legal and safety standards.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several critical changes to existing laws regarding the operation of CMVs:

  1. Work Authorization Requirement:

    • Individuals operating a CMV must possess either:
      • A valid domestic CDL or commercial learner's permit (CLP) issued by a U.S. state, territory, or possession.
      • A CDL or CLP issued by Canada, Mexico, or another jurisdiction recognized by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, along with a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

  2. English Proficiency Requirement:

    • Operators of CMVs must demonstrate sufficient English language proficiency to:
      • Converse with the general public.
      • Understand highway traffic signs and signals.
      • Respond to official inquiries.
      • Make entries on reports and records.

  3. Creation of New Offenses:

    • The bill establishes two new offenses:
      • Presenting a False Foreign CDL: This is classified as a Class D felony.
      • Operating a CMV Without Proper Documentation: This is also a Class D felony unless the individual can prove they had a valid EAD but did not possess it at the time, in which case it is reduced to a Class A misdemeanor.

Affected Parties

The legislation primarily affects:
- Commercial drivers operating in Arkansas, particularly those holding foreign-issued CDLs.
- Employers in the transportation sector who hire commercial drivers.
- Regulatory bodies overseeing vehicle operation and licensing.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Introduced: March 11, 2025
  • Amendments: The bill underwent amendments, including the removal of provisions allowing certain foreign learner's permits under specific conditions.
  • Legislative Actions:
    • Passed by the House and Senate with amendments.
    • Enrolled and transmitted to the Governor's Office on April 9, 2025.
    • Officially became Act 604 on April 14, 2025.

Fiscal Impact

The Department of Finance and Administration has indicated that the bill will have no significant fiscal impact on the state budget. Implementation will require updates to the Office of Motor Vehicle manual and training for relevant staff, but no additional resources are necessary.

Conclusion

Act 604 represents a significant step in regulating the qualifications of commercial drivers in Arkansas, ensuring that they possess the necessary work authorization and language skills to operate safely and effectively on state roadways.

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

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