Us Congress House Bill HB3608

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/23/25
• Refer: 5/23/25
• Refer: 5/24/25

Caption

Connor’s Law

Impact

If enacted, HB3608 would impact existing regulations governing commercial driver certifications, mandating a minimum standard of English language proficiency. The change could align federal regulations with the growing recognition of language skills as a vital component of road safety. Advocates for the bill argue that requiring these language skills is essential to reduce misunderstandings that could lead to accidents on the road. By ensuring that all drivers can read and respond to traffic-related communications, the bill aims to promote safety within the commercial driving sector.

Summary

House Bill 3608, titled 'Connor's Law', proposes amendments to Title 49 of the United States Code regarding the requirements for drivers of commercial motor vehicles to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. The bill stipulates that operators must not only be able to converse with the general public but also comprehend and respond to official inquiries as well as understand traffic signs and signals in English. This legislation aims to enhance safety measures and ensure that all commercial drivers can effectively communicate and adhere to traffic laws.

Contention

However, the proposal may face opposition from various stakeholders, including immigrant advocacy groups who might argue that such requirements could disproportionately affect non-native English speakers seeking employment in the transportation industry. Critics of the bill may contend that it could result in discrimination against capable drivers who lack English proficiency, thus leading to labor shortages in an already critical workforce area. Striking a balance between safety and inclusivity within the workforce is likely to be a central issue in discussions surrounding the bill.