Senate Bill 1748 and House Bill 1817 propose amendments to the Tennessee Code regarding commercial driver licenses, specifically focusing on English language proficiency requirements. The bill introduces a new subdivision in Section 55-50-403, which states that an employee must be able to read and speak English sufficiently to communicate with the public, understand traffic signs, respond to inquiries, and complete required reports. However, it clarifies that this requirement does not apply to individuals who can read and write in English but may not speak it adequately due to hearing impairments, provided they have obtained an exemption.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the commissioner suspend the commercial driver license of any driver who is unable to meet the English language requirements or who has received an out-of-service order. The suspension remains in effect until the driver passes an English proficiency test developed by the department of safety. Employers are held liable for any fines or fees resulting from these suspensions. Furthermore, if a driver is found lacking in English proficiency during a safety inspection, an out-of-service order will be issued, and the employer will face a Class C misdemeanor citation, punishable by a $500 fine. The bill is set to take effect upon becoming law for rule promulgation and on January 1, 2027, for all other provisions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 55-50-403, 55-50-405, 65-15-111