Sufficient proficiency of English now required
State Senator Kendal Sacchieri (R-Blanchard) celebrates the strong approval of Senate Bill 20, the Secure Roads and Safe Trucking Act of 2025, through both chambers of the Oklahoma Legislature.
Once signed into law by Governor Stitt, this legislation will immediately restore safety to Oklahoma’s highways and provide vital relief to American truck drivers.
“Today, Oklahoma took a bold step forward in prioritizing public safety and upholding high standards for our roadways and keeping Oklahoma families safe on the highway,” said Sacchieri.
Senate Bill 20 raises the bar by ensuring that only those who meet strict requirements — like proof of citizenship, valid work visa status, and English proficiency — are allowed to operate commercial vehicles in Oklahoma.
Key provisions of SB 20 include: • Mandating that commercial vehicle operators demonstrate sufficient proficiency in the English language to converse with the public, understand traffic signs, respond to official inquiries, and complete necessary reports.
• Requiring non-domiciled commercial driver license holders to possess valid work visas and provide proof of citizenship through documents such as a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or passport.
• Prohibiting holders of B-1, B-2, or B-1/B-2 nonimmigrant visitor visas from operating commercial motor vehicles within Oklahoma.
• Imposing administrative fines for non-compliance, with proceeds directed to the Weigh Station Improvement Revolving Fund.
“This is about protecting all who travel our highways, regardless of their background,” Sacchieri said. “SB20 is a victory for safety, accountability, and the hardworking truckers who keep America moving.”
“I also want to thank the legislators, leadership, staffers, advocates, and industry partners who supported Senate Bill 20’s journey to the Governor’s desk.
“And I must thank my House sponsor, Rep. Jonathan Wilk (R-Goldsby), for his teamwork and effort to help make this bill’s success possible,” she said. “Together, we are forging a safer, stronger future for Oklahoma’s highways and our truck drivers.”
Senator Sacchieri also extended personal thanks to key industry voices who helped shape the bill.
“This legislation is a direct result of listening to the people who know the industry best. I want to sincerely thank my constituent Cole Stevens with Stevens Trucking for bringing this concern to my attention,” she said.
She added that his insight was invaluable.
Sacchieri said she is also grateful to American Truckers United and to Shannon Everett for spearheading the group, for their partnership and ongoing commitment to safety and professionalism in the industry.”
