The U.S. Department of Transportation indicated that North Carolina could face a significant financial blow, losing nearly $50 million in federal funding if the state fails to revoke commercial driver’s licenses issued to unauthorized immigrants. This warning follows an audit that flagged issues with over 50% of the 50 commercial driver’s licenses reviewed in the state.
Audit Findings
The review, which was part of a nationwide effort led by Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, was spurred by safety concerns after a tragic accident in Florida involving an unauthorized driver. Duffy criticized North Carolina's licensing practices as not only misleading but also perilous for public safety.
North Carolina is the ninth state to be scrutinized under this initiative. According to records, there are currently 924 unexpired commercial licenses held by immigrants in the state. Duffy emphasized the necessity of ensuring that only qualified individuals are allowed to drive commercial vehicles.
Wider Implications
This crackdown on licensing is not limited to North Carolina. Other states, including California and Pennsylvania, have also been threatened with funding losses due to similar violations. California has already faced the withdrawal of nearly $200 million in federal funds due to its licensing delays affecting over 17,000 invalid licenses.
In Tennessee, state officials are now conducting their own audits and will require thousands of commercial license holders to prove their citizenship or valid visa status to retain their driving privileges.
The trucking industry has largely supported the Transportation Department's actions, advocating for measures that prevent unqualified drivers from operating large vehicles. However, immigrant advocacy groups argue that these measures unfairly target certain demographics, especially Sikh truck drivers, raising concerns about civil rights violations.
As the federal government advances stricter licensing policies, the impact on immigrant drivers—who comprise a significant portion of the trucking workforce—continues to develop. Many stakeholders are closely monitoring the outcomes of these contentious policy changes.
