7/10/08-Gov. Matt Blunt has signed a bill into law that calls for trucker-hopefuls in Missouri to prove they have a firm grasp of the English language to obtain a commercial driver’s license.
Previously HB1549, the new law requires the written test to be offered only in English. Applicants’ ability to understand traffic signs and signals written in English also will be required. They will be prohibited from using translators while taking the test.
Another provision in the bill prohibits local governments from enacting policies that give sanctuary to illegal immigrants. State funding would be cut for localities that do not cooperate with federal officials trying to enforce immigration laws.

6/5/08-A bill atop Gov. Matt Blunt’s desk would call for trucker-hopefuls in Missouri to prove they have a firm grasp of the English language to obtain a commercial driver’s license.
A conference committee made up of select members from the House and Senate waited until the final hours of the regular session to sign off on the bill – HB1549 – that would require the written test to be offered only in English. The full chambers followed suit shortly thereafter.
Applicants’ ability to understand traffic signs and signals written in English also would be required. They would be prohibited from using translators while taking the test.
Another provision in the bill would prohibit local governments from enacting policies that give sanctuary to illegal immigrants. State funding would be cut for localities that do not cooperate with federal officials trying to enforce immigration laws.