Lawmakers Zero In on CDL Safety as PMTA Sounds Alarm on Training and Licensing Gaps
Senator Ward opened the hearing by outlining the serious concerns surrounding the issuance of nondomiciled CDLs and REAL IDs to individuals unlawfully present in the United States.
“I’m deeply concerned by the fact that nondomiciled CDLs and REAL IDs were issued to illegal aliens,” said Ward.
“This fact-finding hearing will help us to get to the root cause of this issue and develop policy changes to prevent it from happening in the future. Unlike other states, Pennsylvania has long-standing laws banning driver’s licenses, both regular and commercial, for anyone who is unlawfully present in this commonwealth. If you’re here illegally and falsified documents to receive a Pennsylvania driver’s license, you will be found and prosecuted to the fullest extent under federal and state laws.”
The urgency of the issue has only intensified following the recent arrest of Akhror Bozorov, 31, by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Bozorov, an illegal immigrant from Uzbekistan wanted for ties to a terrorist organization, was issued a Pennsylvania CDL with REAL ID credentials in July.
Panel 1 of the hearing featured three trucking industry leaders who shared their perspectives on commercial driver licensing and safety:
- Rebecca Oyler, President & CEO, Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association (PMTA) – full testimony provided
- Anthony Cloud, Director of Safety and Education, PMTA
- Jeff Mercadante, Chief Safety & Risk Officer, PITT OHIO – full testimony provided
The panel’s testimony, along with input from safety advocates and officials from PennDOT and the Pennsylvania State Police, offered insight into the current challenges facing the trucking industry and opportunities to strengthen CDL processes.
PMTA emphasized the importance of this discussion and the need for measured solutions that improve roadway safety while ensuring the integrity of commercial licensing.
“We appreciated the opportunity to participate in today’s constructive conversation about the risks posed by unqualified CDL drivers on our roads,” said Rebecca Oyler.
“This hearing allowed us to walk through the real challenges the industry is facing and to discuss achievable ways to close gaps in CDL licensing and education at both the state and federal levels. PMTA is grateful for the seriousness and deliberation the committee is bringing to this issue — not simply reacting to headlines but taking a measured approach to strengthening safety for everyone who travels Pennsylvania’s highways.”
In closing, PMTA remains committed to working with state and federal officials to ensure Pennsylvania’s highways remain safe and that commercial driver licensing maintains the highest standards. By participating in hearings like this and engaging in constructive dialogue, the association continues to advocate for policies that protect both the public and the professional trucking community. Strengthening CDL integrity, closing loopholes, and improving education are critical steps toward safer roads for everyone.