“Once again, the Sean ‘Road Rules’ Duffy fails to share the truth — spreading easily disproven falsehoods in a sad and desperate attempt to please his dear leader,” Newsom’s spokesman Brandon Richards countered.
The revocations follow a deadly series of truck crashes in Florida, Texas, and California involving drivers in the country illegally, which Duffy cited as justification for the crackdown.
Federal Funding at Stake
In addition to revoking licenses, Duffy announced financial penalties against California. The state has already lost $40 million in federal transportation funding and could forfeit an additional $160 million if it fails to comply fully.
Duffy accused the state of ignoring English language testing requirements and federal verification standards.
Full Federal Audit Report – DOT
Governor Gavin Newsom, however, insisted that California’s actions are based on state law violations, not federal pressure. “This is about compliance with our own system — not politics,” Newsom said.
New CDL Restrictions for Immigrants
Under Duffy’s September 2025 CDL rule changes, only noncitizens holding H-2A, H-2B, or E-2 visas will qualify for commercial licenses. These CDLs will last a maximum of one year or until the visa expires, whichever comes first.
