STATEHOUSE (Feb. 26, 2026) – State Rep. Jim Pressel's (R-Rolling Prairie) legislation to crack down on illegal immigrants holding Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDLs) advanced through conference committee today and is heading toward final votes in both the House and Senate.
Pressel said the legislation was prompted by recent fatal crashes around the state caused by illegal immigrants with CDLs who were driving large commercial trucks. Pressel said with this bill, Indiana will be the first state to take action against dangerous and illegal drivers exploiting the CDL licensure process.
"Commercial truck drivers must be able to read and understand our traffic laws," Pressel said. "Unfortunately, other states have allowed illegal immigrants to obtain these licenses in other languages and it's costing Hoosier lives. This legislation strengthens Indiana's CDL process, revokes CDLs issued without the proficiency proven, and cracks down on drivers still operating without a valid CDL to improve safety on Indiana 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.
"Indiana has unfortunately seen too many tragic crashes recently involving illegal drivers who don’t have the proper credentials and have taken innocent Hoosiers' lives," said State Rep. Greg Steuerwald (R-Avon), who co-authored HEA 1200. "It's important that we lead on this issue to keep our roads safe and ensure commercial truck drivers and their employers are following the law and have the proper training."
To become law, HB 1200 must pass both the House and Senate in its final form. To learn more about HEA 1200 and follow session, visit iga.in.gov.
-30-
State Rep. Jim Pressel (R-Rolling Prairie) represents District 20,
which includes portions of LaPorte and Starke counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Greg Steuerwald (R-Avon) represents House District 40,
which includes a portion of Hendricks County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
