The Department of Transportation (DOT) has closed a significant loophole that previously allowed unqualified drivers, including illegal immigrants, to operate commercial trucks. This reform follows several fatal crashes last year involving non-domiciled drivers. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated that the new policy ends the ability for foreign drivers to "abuse our truck licensing systems." Under the new regulations, foreign nationals holding only a work permit will no longer be able to obtain a commercial trucking license, as Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) do not provide information about a driver’s previous traffic violations, accidents, or license suspensions in other countries. The reform also requires applicants to present an unexpired foreign passport along with the appropriate Form I-94, and only foreign nationals holding temporary work visas, such as H-2B, H-1B, or E-2 visas, may be eligible. Additionally, states must verify the lawful immigration status of every applicant by checking the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) system. The final rule is expected to take effect around March 15. ([foxnews.com](https://www.foxnews.com/us/dot-closes-major-commercial-trucking-loophole-blamed-illegal-immigrants-causing-fatal-crashes/?utm_source=openai))