Language rule enforcement in U.S. could sideline some Canadian drivers: CTA

The new U.S. enforcement policy on English language proficiency (ELP) could leave some Canadian commercial drivers sidelined, according to a survey by the Canadian Trucking Alliance (CTA).

Roughly one in five carriers who responded to the survey indicated that some of their drivers may struggle to meet the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)’s long-standing ELP requirements. On average, 15 per cent of fleet drivers from the surveyed carriers could be affected by the new enforcement guidance.

Effective June 25, drivers found non-compliant with the ELP rule could receive a citation, be placed out of service, or even face license disqualification. The enhanced enforcement follows a Presidential Executive Order issued in April.

“The heightened enforcement attention on this issue has been in place since late May. We will be continuing to monitor the situation closely once the OOS goes active mid-next week and will be comparing it to the survey results,” said Geoff Wood, senior vice-president of policy at CTA. “While this appears manageable right now, the trucking industry is experiencing the worst freight recession in 40 years. The full impact to Canada-US trade would likely increase as economies improve and demand for freight transportation rises.”

The FMCSA has yet to clarify how enforcement officials will assess language proficiency, though the intent is to ensure drivers can communicate effectively with officers and interpret highway signage to operate safely.

CTA said it will continue to monitor the rollout and share updates with the industry.