An Update from State Representative Garrett bascom
In Indiana, we do a lot of work to ensure our roads are safe and secure for every driver.
Because of smart investments at both the state and local levels through the Community Crossings Matching Grant Program and other sources, we have the infrastructure needed to truly be the Crossroads of America. We also continue to prioritize the safety of Hoosier motorists.
Indiana passed a law this year to address illegal commercial truck drivers on our roads, increasing penalties for those who have harmed and even killed others by not having the knowledge, proper documentation or skills to drive large vehicles.
House Enrolled Act 1200, which I supported, requires individuals seeking a Commercial Driver’s License in Indiana to meet specific requirements before getting behind the wheel.
Earlier this year, four Hoosiers lost their lives when they were struck by an illegal alien driving a semi-truck. This tragedy should never have occurred, and while we cannot control what other states do, we can hold ourselves to a higher standard of safety for our citizens.
HEA 1200 reinforces the requirements for nondomiciled drivers to receive a CDL in Indiana, including requiring applicants to demonstrate a proficiency in English so they understand road signs and law enforcement safety instructions.
The new law also makes it a Level 6 felony for a person to present false records or lack proper documentation when applying for a CDL and directs the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles to revoke the licenses of illegal immigrants when their underlying legal status lapses. Additionally, the Indiana Attorney General is authorized to seek penalties against training businesses that knowingly prepare ineligible drivers or don’t comply with federal or Indiana standards.
This new law is designed to ensure all drivers on Indiana roads are held to the same standards. In communities like ours, bordering a city the size of Cincinnati, we see plenty of commercial traffic using our streets and highways. This measure will hopefully prevent accidents like the one that happened earlier this year.
To learn more about the new law and others passed during the 2026 legislative session, visit iga.in.gov.
