OOIDA Call to Action - Missouri members
January 18, 2008

Attention: Missouri truckers! A bill in the state’s House would call for aspiring truckers to prove they have a firm grasp of the English language to obtain a commercial driver’s license. Please take time now to share your views on this important topic with your state lawmakers.

The bill – HB1420 – would require the written test to be offered only in English. Applicants would also be required to have the ability to understand traffic signs and signals written in English. They would be prohibited from using interpreters or translators while taking the test.

Supporters say restrictions are needed to help ensure that aspiring truckers and other drivers have a firm grasp of the English language before they obtain their licenses to drive. They also point out that federal regulations require CDL applicants to be able to read and speak English sufficiently.

Opponents say there are no studies that suggest English proficiency makes better drivers. Others say there are more pressing issues to address in the state.

HB1420 is awaiting assignment to committee in the House. This is a great opportunity for you to communicate with your state representative and senator about this issue. For contact information, visit http://www.senate.mo.gov/llookup/leg_lookup.aspx and fill out the ZIP code request.

You can also call the OOIDA Membership Department at 1-800-444-5791 and they can pull up the information for you.