Federal Review Flags Illegal CDL Issuance in New York, Threatens Funding Cut

A federal audit has revealed significant non-compliance by New York State in issuing Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDLs) to foreign nationals. The audit found that over half of the commercial licenses granted to foreigners in New York were issued improperly, with many licenses extending far beyond the expiration of the individuals' lawful work authorizations. This practice raises concerns about road safety and regulatory adherence, prompting action from the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy highlighted that New York issued eight-year commercial licenses to individuals holding only 60-day work authorizations, often without verifying their legal status. Such discrepancies mean some foreign drivers hold valid CDLs years after their work permits expire, potentially allowing unqualified or unauthorized drivers on U.S. roads. This finding underscores regulatory compliance failures and risks to public safety on American roadways. Duffy has issued a 30-day compliance ultimatum to New York, warning that failure to address the issues could result in the withholding of tens of millions of federal dollars. The funding threat represents a significant enforcement tool aimed at ensuring state adherence to federal licensing regulations. The FMCSA continues to monitor and investigate licensing practices to align state-issued CDLs with federal immigration and employment laws. New York's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has responded by affirming its commitment to federal regulations, stating that all issued CDLs undergo verification of lawful status through federally-issued documentation. However, the audit findings indicate gaps in verification processes and regulatory enforcement. This situation adds to ongoing federal-state tensions, as previous disputes over transportation funding and policy have involved New York. The issue is framed within the broader context of transportation safety and regulatory compliance rather than political debate. Ensuring that commercial drivers meet legal and qualification standards is critical to maintaining safe roadways. The federal government's actions highlight a commitment to enforcing licensing standards that protect both the public and the integrity of the transportation industry.