Truckers' language rules unclear

Mexican drivers also can answer in Spanish
By Paul M. Krawzak
UNION-TRIBUNE U-T WASHINGTON BUREAU
March 12, 2008

WASHINGTON – Mexican truck drivers allowed to travel throughout the United States under the auspices of a pilot program are first required by law to demonstrate proficiency with the English language.

But U.S. Department of Transportation regulations allow those drivers to use a language other than English when responding to questions to prove they recognize U.S. highway signs, according to testimony yesterday at a Senate hearing.

The apparent disparity between the legal requirement and the specific regulation drew a skeptical reaction from Sen. Byron Dorgan, D-N.D.

“It raises the question of English proficiency, which is part of the safety issue,” he said.

Dorgan, an opponent of the program, has accused the Bush administration of not requiring Mexican truck drivers to meet the same safety standards as their U.S. counterparts – a claim that federal transportation officials dispute.