Bill > SB1223

This bill amends existing Oklahoma law to strengthen requirements for commercial motor vehicle operators' English language proficiency. The legislation mandates that commercial truck drivers must be able to demonstrate sufficient English skills to converse with the public, understand traffic signs and signals, respond to official inquiries, and complete required reports and records. If a driver is found to be non-compliant, the commercial motor carrier will be fined $3,000 per violation, with the proceeds going to the Weigh Station Improvement Revolving Fund. Additionally, the driver will be prohibited from operating a commercial motor vehicle until they can meet the English language requirements. Violations by drivers can result in misdemeanor charges, with potential fines up to $1,000 and/or up to 90 days in jail, and the collected fines will be deposited in the Trauma Care Assistance Revolving Fund. The bill also imposes an additional $1,000 penalty on the driver for non-compliance. The new law is set to take effect on November 1, 2026, giving commercial motor carriers and drivers time to prepare for and comply with the enhanced language proficiency standards.

Transportation and Infrastructure

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb1223&Session=2600