In a decisive move to enhance road safety, Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy announced a significant crackdown on non-compliant trucking schools, signaling the end of what he termed a "Wild Wild West" era in the trucking industry.
This initiative, part of the Trump administration's broader efforts to address illegal alien drivers, underscores a commitment to enforcing stringent regulations.
Duffy's remarks came in response to an Associated Press report highlighting the potential closure of nearly 44% of U.S. truck driving schools following a federal review. The report noted that many of these institutions might be failing to adhere to government regulations.
According to RedState, Duffy took to X to emphasize the administration's stance, stating, "Huge Alert: US Department of Transportation is giving thousands of trucking schools 30 days to comply with federal rules for drivers, or they may be forced to close down." He further asserted, "The days of a 'Wild Wild West' trucking industry are over under the Trump administration."
The Department of Transportation's review revealed that approximately 7,500 out of 16,000 truck driving schools in the United States could face closure if they do not meet compliance standards. Specifically, nearly 3,000 schools risk losing their certification unless they align with training requirements within the next month.
An additional 4,500 schools have been cautioned about potential similar actions. This rigorous enforcement aims to eliminate the practice of allowing inadequately trained drivers, including those unable to read English or comprehend road signs, from obtaining commercial licenses.
Duffy's statement on the DOT website reinforced the administration's resolve: "We are reining in illegal and reckless practices that let poorly trained drivers get behind the wheel of semi-trucks and school buses." This initiative is part of President Trump's broader agenda to rectify the consequences of what many conservatives view as the previous administration's lenient border policies.
The Trump administration has consistently prioritized the safety of American citizens, seeking to prevent accidents and fatalities caused by unqualified drivers.
Critics of the AP report argue that it downplays the necessity of these measures, framing the potential school closures as a negative outcome rather than a step towards safer roads. The administration's approach is clear: businesses must adhere to established rules or face the consequences, a principle that aligns with conservative values of law and order.
The Trump administration's actions reflect a commitment to restoring order and safety in the trucking industry, addressing the challenges posed by illegal immigration and ensuring that only qualified individuals are entrusted with the responsibility of operating commercial vehicles.
As the 30-day compliance deadline looms, the administration's message is unequivocal: adherence to regulations is non-negotiable, and the safety of American roads remains a top priority.
Login