Driver Licenses - As introduced, requires an enforcement officer to issue an out-of-service order to a driver issued a commercial driver license if the officer determines during a safety inspection that the driver is unable to read and speak the English language in violation of federal requirements for commercial driver license holders; applies penalties against employers of such drivers. - Amends TCA Title 55 and Title 65, Chapter 15.

HB 1023 requires commercial drivers in Tennessee to be able to read and speak English well enough to understand traffic signs, communicate with officials, and complete required reports, as mandated by federal law (49 CFR 391.11(b)(2)). During safety inspections, if an officer determines a driver cannot meet this standard, they must issue an out-of-service order halting the driver’s vehicle operation until a qualified substitute is available. The driver’s commercial license is suspended until they pass a state-administered English proficiency test, and employers face a $500 fine for each violation. This bill directly affects commercial drivers and their employers in Tennessee, ensuring compliance with federal safety requirements.