NJ Senator wants to know “who exactly benefits” from FMCSA’s final rule severely restricting non-domiciled CDLs

New Jersey Senator Benjie E. Wimberly wants to know “who exactly benefits” from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s final rule severely limiting and changing the standards for obtaining a non-domiciled CDL. 

On Monday, March 16th, the FMCSA put an immediate pause on “the issuance of non-domiciled CLPs or CDLs until the State can ensure non-domiciled CLPs and CDLs are issued in accordance with the revised standards.” These revised standards include more stringent driving history checks for foreign truck drivers, and limits the eligibility for CDLs to specific visa holders.

Now, Senator Wimberly has issued a statement asking “who exactly benefits” from these new, stricter standards. 

“I cannot see how decisions like this reflect any clear or constructive agenda; can someone explain to me how this makes America great? Who exactly benefits from taking away the livelihoods of hardworking people who are contributing to our communities and economy? This policy does not strengthen our workforce or improve public well-being; instead, it destabilizes families, disrupts local economies, and places unnecessary strain on already vulnerable households,” he wrote in an official statement. 

“The decision to strip commercial driver’s licenses from approximately 2,000 immigrant truck drivers under the Trump administration is outrageous, unjust, and deeply harmful. For many of these individuals, this work is their primary source of household income, the very foundation that allows them to provide food, pay rent, and support their families,” the statement continues.

“At my District Office, we have already begun receiving emails and calls from drivers unable to renew their CDLs…”The impact of this decision will create a dangerous ripple effect that will be felt across Paterson, LD-35, and the broader New Jersey community. When thousands of workers lose their ability to earn a living, entire families are put at risk, small businesses feel the consequences, and communities suffer.

“These are individuals who are doing honest work and striving to build better lives for themselves and their families. Policies like this put real people and real livelihoods in jeopardy, with no clear benefit, only lasting harm.”

“Every time I can express my views, I remain committed to supporting immigrants, the working class, families, seniors, students, and holistic community development through my advocacy and dedication to positive societal progress.”