Bill > HB4718

This bill, the Secure Roads and Safe Trucking Act, aims to enhance safety by imposing new identification and language proficiency requirements for non-resident individuals operating commercial motor vehicles in West Virginia. Specifically, these drivers must now possess a valid work visa and provide proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or passport, to confirm their identity. Furthermore, they must demonstrate sufficient English language skills to communicate with the public, understand traffic signs and signals, respond to official inquiries, and complete necessary reports. Violations of these new provisions will result in misdemeanor penalties for drivers, including fines and potential jail time, and significant fines for commercial motor carriers. The bill also empowers the Commissioner to implement the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's (FMCSA) Even Exchange Program, which allows military service members with relevant experience to obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) without a skills test, and permits first responders, like firefighters and emergency responders, to also apply for a CDL without skills testing, provided they have recent experience operating commercial motor vehicles.

Government Affairs

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=4718&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill