Concerns About Illegal Immigrant Drivers Grow as REAL ID Deadline Approaches

A prominent House Republican, whose family has a long-standing presence in the trucking industry, is raising alarms over the issue of illegal immigrants working as drivers in the United States.

Representative Mike Collins, a Republican from Georgia, commended President Donald Trump’s recent executive order that mandates English proficiency for professional drivers. In a detailed discussion with Fox News Digital, Collins emphasized the urgent need for this requirement.

The timing is critical as the deadline for the REAL ID implementation is fast approaching in the United States. This initiative, which has been two decades in the making, aims to crack down on illegal immigration, particularly among individuals who have been granted driver’s licenses in various blue states despite their undocumented status.

Collins articulated significant safety concerns, stating, “Accident rates have soared by 75% because we have individuals driving trucks across the country who cannot read or speak English.” With 30 years of experience in the trucking industry, he has witnessed the effects firsthand.

Reflecting on his perspective, he commented, “It defies logic that we continue to allow this to happen. Thank goodness the president recognized the issue and took action with this executive order.”

In recent years, reports indicate that illegal immigrants have successfully obtained driver’s licenses in 19 states and Washington, D.C., where these permits are issued without regard to immigration status. Collins contended that this trend has broader implications for the trucking industry.

Impact on the Trucking Industry

“The presence of individuals without legal status impacts the trucking sector negatively,” he explained. “These drivers have no real accountability; they might not care about consequences if they are involved in an accident, as they are not here legally. At worst, they could only lose the vehicle since there are few repercussions for them.”

This lack of accountability raises crucial safety concerns for all drivers on the road. Collins urged for action, stating, “We must get these individuals off our roads. They should return to their home countries, and we need to ensure that only qualified drivers are allowed behind the wheel.”

REAL ID Administration Challenges

The effectiveness of the REAL ID initiative remains uncertain, given that states can continue to issue non-compliant licenses alongside the new federal standard. This dual licensing system raises questions about the potential impact on safety and security.

The Trump administration is determined to limit the movement of individuals who have crossed the border illegally, aiming to prevent them from accessing air travel to regions like Georgia, Collins’ home state, among others.

Upcoming Changes to ID Regulations

As of May 7, non-compliant state-issued IDs will no longer be accepted for commercial flying and access to federal buildings. This change marks a significant shift in ID regulations designed to enhance security.

In a recent memo, the Department of Homeland Security asserted, “Under President Biden’s administration, illegal aliens used non-compliant IDs from sanctuary cities to board flights. The REAL ID’s stringent security standards will make it nearly impossible to forge valid documents, ensuring that only verified travelers can access air travel.”

The evolving landscape of immigration policy continues to raise questions about safety and responsibility within the trucking industry. As the deadline for REAL ID implementation looms, it remains crucial for lawmakers and industry leaders to address these pressing concerns responsibly.

Looking Ahead: Navigating the Future

The discussions surrounding illegal immigrant drivers and the upcoming REAL ID regulations highlight the complex interplay between immigration, public safety, and industry standards. As these issues evolve, stakeholders must explore solutions that prioritize safety while also considering the implications for the workforce.

Collins’ insights and experiences underscore the urgent need for reforms that ensure accountability among drivers on the road. Whether through enhanced regulations or more thorough enforcement, promoting safe driving practices must be a priority in addressing the challenges posed by illegal immigration in the trucking sector.