This bill amends the Kansas uniform commercial drivers' license act by redefining the criteria for commercial motor vehicles and implementing new requirements for drivers. It mandates that all operators of commercial motor vehicles possess a valid driver's license or specific identification documents, which must include proof of citizenship and, if applicable, a work visa. Additionally, drivers are required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language to ensure effective communication while operating a commercial vehicle. Violations of these requirements will incur penalties, including fines and a prohibition on operating a commercial vehicle until compliance is achieved. The bill also establishes a notification system for employers when a driver is found in violation, requiring them to present a compliant driver within 12 hours or inform the cargo owner for the transfer of goods.

Furthermore, the bill modifies existing statutes related to nonresident commercial driver's licenses, allowing issuance to applicants who are at least 18 years old, employed by a Kansas employer, and residents of a foreign country, contingent upon passing the necessary tests. It specifies that these licenses will be marked as "nonresident commercial driver's license" or "nonresident CDL" and will expire with the nonresident's employment authorization in the U.S. The bill introduces civil penalties for violations of out-of-service orders, with fines ranging from $1,100 to $2,750 for drivers and $2,750 to $11,000 for employers, and clarifies that these penalties will be enforced by the division of vehicles and collected in district court, with proceeds directed to the state highway fund. Several sections of existing law are repealed to streamline the legal framework surrounding commercial driver's licenses in Kansas.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 8-2