The 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.

Furthermore, the bill imposes civil penalties of $50,000 on motor carriers found to be allowing unauthorized aliens to operate commercial vehicles, with the stipulation that vehicles cannot be released until penalties and associated costs are paid. The Office of Commercial Vehicle Enforcement is granted authority to issue out-of-service orders and impose penalties on motor carriers under specific circumstances, with the requirement that such orders be approved by the director of the Florida Highway Patrol. The bill also ensures that all collected penalties are directed to the Chief Financial Officer for funding training and technology related to enforcement. An administrative hearing process is established for motor carriers subject to out-of-service orders. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.