The legislature has passed a bill to require anyone seeking a commercial driver’s license or C-D-L permit in Iowa to pass an English proficiency test. Representative Ann Meyer of Fort Dodge says new applicants and those renewing a commercial driver’s license must be tested.
“To demonstrate they are able to read and speak the English language to speak and converse with the general public,” Meyer said, “(and) understand highway traffic signs and signals in the English language.” The bill passed the House Wednesday on a 75 to 22 vote and it goes to the governor. It cleared the Senate earlier with even wider bipartisan support. A truck driver could be sentenced to up to a year in prison and fined a thousand dollars if they’re pulled over and police determine they lack English language skills. The driver’s trucking company would be fined 10-thousand dollars.
