Florida has filed a lawsuit directly with the U.S. Supreme Court, accusing California of endangering public safety by issuing commercial driver\u2019s licenses (CDLs) to undocumented immigrants. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier argues that this practice violates federal regulations requiring CDL holders to demonstrate English proficiency and road sign comprehension.<\/p>\n
The case follows a deadly August crash on Florida\u2019s Turnpike involving Harjinder Singh, an undocumented immigrant with a California-issued CDL. Singh, who reportedly could not read road signs, attempted an illegal U-turn with an 18-wheeler, causing a collision that killed three people. Florida officials claim the incident underscores the dangers of California\u2019s licensing policies.<\/p>\n
Uthmeier criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom, alleging the state\u2019s sanctuary policies prevent verification of an applicant\u2019s immigration status and flout federal safety standards. \u201cThey knowingly put lives at risk,\u201d Uthmeier said on Fox News<\/em>, calling the policy an \u201cactionable public nuisance.\u201d<\/p>\n Florida\u2019s petition seeks to prohibit California from issuing CDLs to individuals not legally present in the U.S., asserting that federal law supersedes state-level immigration and licensing policies. The petition also names Washington state as a secondary concern due to similar practices that could pose risks on national highways.<\/p>\n In response, the U.S. Department of Transportation has already withheld $40 million in highway funds from California for failing to enforce English-language requirements. The state has 30 days to comply or risk losing an additional $160 million. Singh remains in custody, facing vehicular homicide and immigration charges as the lawsuit gains national attention.<\/p>\n WATCH:<\/p>\n