California is preparing to revoke driver’s licenses issued to approximately 17,000 immigrant truckers,a move occurring amid heightened scrutiny and pressure stemming from former President donald Trump’s repeated criticisms of teh state’s policies. The licenses, granted to individuals who qualified under a state law allowing them to drive commercially without providing proof of legal residency, will expire within 60 days, according to Newsom’s office.
This action addresses concerns raised by federal investigators who found a notable number of licenses were improperly issued, possibly jeopardizing transportation safety and responding to demands for stricter enforcement of immigration-related regulations. The revocations impact a segment of the trucking industry reliant on these drivers and reflect a complex interplay between state policies, federal oversight, and ongoing political debate surrounding immigration.
State officials maintain they followed guidance from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security when issuing the licenses. however, a recent examination revealed flaws in the process. Investigators determined that roughly 25% of 145 licenses reviewed should not have been granted, with some remaining valid for years after the drivers’ work permits had expired.
According to Duffy, investigators found examples of California licenses remaining valid even after the driver’s work permit expired, in certain specific cases for several years. Newsom’s office stated the problematic licenses were issued before new requirements were put in place.
