Comment from T N

T NSupportIndividual
Summary: The commenter is an individual requesting that the FMCSA expand eligibility for Class B Non-Domiciled Commercial Driver's Licenses to include H-4 EAD holders and DACA recipients. They argue that these individuals possess valid federal work authorization and lawful presence, and that including them would help address workforce needs and align with safety goals.
I respectfully urge the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to explicitly include H-4 EAD holders and DACA recipients as eligible for Class B Non-Domiciled Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs) based on lawful presence and valid federal employment authorization. FMCSA should recognize commonly issued federal documentation that verifies lawful presence and work authorization, including valid Employment Authorization Documents (EADs), Form I-94 records, foreign passports, Form I-797 approval notices, and other documentation issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). H-4 EAD holders are authorized to work in the United States under DHS regulations, including 8 CFR § 274a.12(c)(26). They undergo DHS and USCIS vetting, including identity verification and background screening. Many have resided in the United States for extended periods, pay taxes, and contribute to essential industries, including transportation. Similarly, DACA recipients maintain valid employment authorization and make meaningful contributions to the workforce and their communities. Qualified Class B drivers who demonstrate lawful presence, valid federal work authorization, and safe driving records should not be excluded solely because their specific immigration category is not explicitly listed. Expanding eligibility would align with FMCSA’s goals of safety, reliable identity verification, and addressing workforce needs. Thank you for your consideration.

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