Arkansas' New Trucking Law: What It Means for the Industry

In March 2025, Arkansas introduced the Secure Roads and Safe Trucking Act of 2025 (HB1569). This law aims to improve road safety by enforcing stricter rules on noncitizen commercial truck drivers. While lawmakers argue the bill promotes safer highways, it's stirred concern among trucking businesses and immigrant drivers alike. Let’s break it down.

Key Points of the New Law

1. U.S.-Issued CDL Requirement:

   • Noncitizen drivers must now hold a U.S.-issued Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to operate trucks in Arkansas.

   • Without it, drivers face a $5,000 fine and vehicle impoundment.

2. English Language Proficiency:

   • Drivers must show they can read road signs, follow traffic signals, and communicate clearly in emergencies.

   • Failure to meet this requirement results in another $5,000 fine.

3. Criminal Penalties for Accidents:

   • If a noncitizen driver without a U.S. CDL is involved in an accident causing injury, they face a Class D felony and a minimum 6-month jail sentence.

   • If the accident causes death, the charge rises to a Class B felony with a minimum 10-year prison sentence.

4. Trucking Company Liability:

   • Companies employing or leasing trucks to ineligible drivers could face fines up to $10,000.

How This Law Could Affect Trucking in Arkansas

• Driver Shortages:

  • The U.S. trucking industry already struggles with a driver shortage. This law may worsen that by limiting the pool of eligible drivers further.

• Higher Costs:

  • Trucking companies may face extra costs to ensure compliance — from verifying licenses to covering potential fines — which could lead to higher transportation rates.

• Supply Chain Disruptions:

  • Fewer drivers may cause shipping delays, impacting businesses that rely on fast, consistent deliveries.

Criticism and Legal Pushback

Critics argue the law unfairly targets immigrant drivers. The ACLU of Arkansas has raised concerns, suggesting it could conflict with federal trucking regulations and may face legal challenges.

Final Thoughts

The Secure Roads and Safe Trucking Act of 2025 brings significant changes to Arkansas' trucking landscape. While safety is the goal, the ripple effects on the workforce, industry costs, and supply chains can’t be ignored. Trucking companies and drivers should stay informed and prepared to adapt.

What do you think? Will this law improve safety or create more challenges for the trucking industry? Let us know in the comments!