Duffy Claims Lives Could Have Been Saved if Newsom Had Followed Truck Licensing Rules

Duffy Claims Lives Could Have Been Saved if Newsom Had Followed Truck Licensing Rules

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has publicly accused California Governor Gavin Newsom of violating federal commercial licensing regulations. Duffy alleges that Newsom’s administration allowed an undocumented immigrant to hold a commercial driver’s license, a decision that he argues led to a catastrophic freeway accident resulting in three fatalities in California.

Accident Triggers National Debate

This tragic incident, which occurred on a Southern California freeway, has sparked significant controversy. Jashanpreet Singh, a 21-year-old driver from India, is alleged to have driven a semi-truck under the influence of alcohol, contributing to a multi-vehicle crash that claimed the lives of three individuals.

In response to this tragedy, Governor Newsom placed blame on federal policies, stating that they ultimately permitted Singh to obtain his driver’s license. However, Duffy has firmly rejected this assertion, shifting the responsibility back to California.

Federal Oversight Intensifies

The ongoing dispute between state and federal officials escalates as Duffy threatens to withhold millions in federal highway funding from California. Moreover, he has initiated a thorough federal investigation into how immigrants receive commercial driver’s licenses in the state.

A Focus on Responsibility

During an interview on America Reports, Duffy stressed the implications of following federal regulations. He stated, “Had Gavin followed our rules per DOT, this guy would have never been on the road. Three more people would be alive.” His comments underscore the perceived severity of the situation and the call for stricter regulations.

What Went Wrong?

The September 26 declaration by the Department of Transportation indicates that California breached new federal guidelines. These rules were designed to restrict non-citizen access to commercial driver’s licenses. California allegedly upgraded Singh’s non-domiciled CDL status despite these guidelines.

The Department of Transportation’s statement clarifies, “If California had complied with the Secretary’s emergency rule and prevented the upgrade of this individual’s driving privileges earlier this month, he would have never been able to get behind his big rig.” This statement emphasizes the consequences of failing to adhere to federal regulations.

California’s Response

According to the Department of Transportation, Singh first received his commercial driver’s license in June this year. However, his license was upgraded in mid-October, only weeks after new federal restrictions were enacted.

Newsom’s press office has labeled the incident as