Florida Congressman Byron Donalds is pushing for a federal crackdown on sanctuary-state policies that allow illegal immigrants to obtain commercial licenses, citing a recent operation by ICE and Oklahoma Highway Patrol that arrested 70 individuals, including 34 accused of driving big rigs unlawfully. He introduced the WEIGH Act to give federal authorities new tools to hold states accountable and penalize them for enabling such practices.
Donalds, a prominent Republican, criticized sanctuary states for their failure to prioritize public safety and condemned the dangers posed by illegal immigrants who are granted commercial licenses. He noted that the recent joint operation led to several arrests, including drivers operating large trucks without proper authorization. Donalds argued that states like California, Illinois, New York, and New Jersey are enabling unlawful behavior, which endangers the lives of American citizens.
Donalds emphasized the need for federal intervention, stating that the issue of illegal immigrants obtaining commercial licenses is a serious public safety concern. He highlighted the risks associated with drivers who are not fluent in English or unfamiliar with U.S. road signs, describing the situation as a growing national threat. The congressman called for legislative action, asserting that the federal government must take responsibility for ensuring compliance with immigration and safety laws.
The operation was part of a broader enforcement effort by ICE and state agencies to address the risks posed by unlicensed and unauthorized drivers. Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt praised the initiative, stating that the state would continue enforcing