This bill amends section 316.3026 of the Florida Statutes to address the operation of commercial motor vehicles by unauthorized aliens, declaring it a significant safety hazard. It establishes that commercial motor vehicle operators must be lawfully present in the U.S., possess a valid driver’s license, and have the ability to understand and communicate in English. The bill mandates that sworn law enforcement officers take unauthorized aliens into custody and facilitate their transfer to federal immigration authorities. Additionally, it requires the impoundment of vehicles operated by unauthorized aliens and the immediate notification of the Florida Highway Patrol.

The bill imposes civil penalties of $50,000 on motor carriers found to have allowed unauthorized aliens to operate commercial vehicles, which must be paid before the vehicle can be released. It also allows the Office of Commercial Vehicle Enforcement to issue out-of-service orders to motor carriers under certain conditions, with the approval of the director of the Florida Highway Patrol. The penalties collected will be directed to the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund to support training and technology for enforcement. An administrative hearing process is also established for motor carriers subject to out-of-service orders. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.