Washington: The U.S. government has suspended the issuance of worker visas for commercial truck drivers, a decision that comes in the wake of a deadly crash in Florida earlier this month. The announcement was made on X by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who linked the move to growing concerns over foreign drivers on American highways.
โThe increasing presence of foreign nationals operating heavy tractor-trailers is not only endangering American lives but also threatening the livelihoods of U.S. truckers,โ Rubio posted.
Triggered by Florida Tragedy
The decision follows the August 12 accident in Florida that killed three people. Authorities confirmed that Harjinder Singh, an Indian national, was driving the vehicle involved in the crash. Singh had entered the United States illegally through the Mexican border in 2018, according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV).
Officials said Singh had obtained a commercial driverโs license in California and was driving recklessly when the accident occurred. He allegedly attempted an illegal U-turn, which led to the fatal collision.
Immigration and Political Fallout
The case has sparked a fierce political storm, particularly after revelations that Singh had initially been denied a work permit under the Trump administration but later secured one under President Biden.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has also faced criticism, with federal officials pointing fingers at his stateโs Department of Motor Vehicles for issuing Singh a license. DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin slammed the state leadership, stating: โThree innocent people lost their lives in Florida because Californiaโs DMV allowed an undocumented immigrant to obtain a commercial license. This reckless approach to governance must end.โ
Next Steps
Homeland Security confirmed that Singh is facing trial for the crash and will be deported afterward. Meanwhile, federal authorities have stressed that the new visa suspension is aimed at reviewing existing policies to ensure public safety.
The incident has reignited debates over immigration, road safety, and the vetting of commercial drivers, with critics arguing that policy loopholes are putting Americans at risk.
