STATEHOUSE (March 3, 2026) – Recently, State Rep. Matt Lehman (R-Berne) supported legislation to crack down on illegal immigrants holding Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDLs), which is now heading to the governor for final consideration as a law.
Lehman said the legislation was prompted by recent fatal crashes, including a Jay County crash on State Road 67 near the Ohio border that killed four people and involved a commercial driver without proper credentials. Lehman said the bill would make Indiana the first state to strengthen CDL standards and target illegal drivers exploiting the licensing process.
"Hoosiers deserve safe highways," Lehman said. "By strengthening credential checks, requiring English proficiency and reinforcing clear standards for commercial licenses, this legislation helps ensure drivers are properly trained, qualified and operating legally while keeping unqualified drivers off the roads."
House Enrolled Act 1200 requires individuals holding CDLs to demonstrate English proficiency, ensuring they understand traffic signs and law enforcement safety instruction. The bill makes it a Level 6 felony for individuals who present false records or lack proper documentation for their CDL. It also establishes civil penalties for businesses that hire illegal aliens to drive commercial vehicles.
To learn more about legislation passed by the General Assembly, click here.
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State Rep. Matt Lehman (R-Berne) represents House District 79,
which includes all of Adams County, and portions of Jay and Wells counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
