Florida is exploring the possibility of establishing a sanctuary jurisdiction that would allow illegal immigrants to obtain commercial driver licenses (CDLs). This initiative follows a tragic accident earlier this month that resulted in the deaths of three individuals, allegedly involving illegal immigrant drivers, as noted by Attorney General James Usmier during a press conference.
At this press conference, Usmier addressed reporters alongside other law enforcement officials regarding the August 12 incident. The crash involved 28-year-old illegal immigrant Harjinder Singh and another individual, Roberto Carlos Vergara, who was operating a commercial vehicle in Bay County over the weekend.
“We are looking into the practices of other sanctuary jurisdictions and the agents and businesses that may have offered or lacked necessary tests,” Usmier stated, referencing the required CDL exams that potential truck drivers must complete before getting on the road.
Currently, illegal immigrants in Florida cannot acquire driver’s licenses, but Usmier mentioned that regions offering these licenses create significant legal liabilities.
Singh, who is also an illegal immigrant, was reportedly driving a commercial semi-truck on the Florida Turnpike and attempted to make an illegal U-turn before colliding with another vehicle, leading to the fatalities. Authorities stated he had previously obtained CDL licenses from California and Washington.
Usmier highlighted that Vergara, now under ICE detention, possesses a CDL obtained from New Jersey. He questioned the practicalities of individuals who don’t speak English passing such tests. “It’s difficult to fathom how someone who cannot read street signs can safely operate large vehicles,” Usmier remarked.
Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson added that authorities are stepping up enforcement against illegal drivers operating commercial trucks in Florida, mentioning plans to increase inspection capabilities, including adding pullover lanes at the northern border and implementing x-ray machines at checkpoints.
