The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is raising alarms over what it calls “systemic negligence” in enforcing truck driver qualification standards. Chief Counsel Jesse Elison revealed that California, New Mexico, and Washington allowed dozens of unqualified truck drivers to operate, despite prior service suspensions in other states for failing English language proficiency requirements.

According to FMCSA data, California alone recorded more than 34,000 violations related to English proficiency, yet only one driver was pulled over for a language issue. Elison argued this lack of enforcement poses serious risks, saying unqualified drivers are effectively being allowed to operate “40-ton death machines” on public highways.

At the same time, Congress is advancing the Trucker Bathroom Access Act (H.R. 2514), which ensures restroom access for drivers. Elison stressed, however, that “safety starts with basic qualifications” and criticized states for prioritizing political agendas over public safety.

Each year, taxpayers fund more than $50 million in federal highway grants for California, Washington, and New Mexico—funding that Elison suggested could be withheld unless compliance improves. “Defund states that refuse compliance,” he said. “Every dollar wasted enabling unqualified drivers is stolen from infrastructure that could save lives.”

The FMCSA’s findings are expected to intensify pressure on state agencies to enforce federal safety standards more rigorously, with potential policy battles ahead over funding and compliance.