Exemption Application: Commercial Driver's License; Jenifer Sanchez Vilchis

The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) supports the requested exemption for DACA recipients to obtain Class B Commercial Driver's Licenses. They argue that the exemption would address critical staffing shortages in public services like school bus driving and transit, while maintaining safety because DACA recipients' driving records are domestic and accessible.

The commenter argues that non-domicile licenses are essential for individuals who work across state lines while maintaining a primary residence elsewhere. They highlight how these licenses expand employment opportunities, support economic growth, and ensure legal compliance and public safety.

Micah Hayes, a pastor in Kansas, supports the exemption request to allow DACA recipients with valid EADs to obtain Class B Commercial Driver's Licenses. He argues that DACA holders have verifiable domestic driving histories and that the current restriction creates unnecessary barriers to employment for integrated community members without improving highway safety.

A former CDL driver and DACA recipient argues against a proposed rule that would prohibit certain non-citizens from obtaining non-domiciled CDLs. The commenter suggests that DACA recipients are well-vetted and proposes requiring specific documentation (EAD and I-821D approval) rather than a blanket prohibition.

The commenter, a DACA recipient, supports the proposed action as part of a broader effort to secure commercial driver's licenses for non-domiciled individuals. They argue that the petition is a necessary step for community unity and that the rights of DACA recipients should be protected and recognized.

A commercial driver with over 15 years of experience opposes the CDL exemption for Jenifer Sanchez Vilchis. The commenter argues that non-citizens should not be allowed to hold CDLs, claiming they contribute to inflated insurance rates, low freight rates, and unsafe road conditions.

The commenter argues that Class A commercial vehicle operations are inherently more dangerous and involved in more severe crashes than Class B or C operations due to vehicle physics, training deficiencies, and industry practices. They contend that safety risks are tied to vehicle type and operating conditions rather than the immigration status of the drivers.

The commenter is requesting that the FMCSA provide an exemption for H-4 EAD holders under the non-domiciled CDL regulations. They argue that these individuals are legally authorized to work and should be granted the same opportunity to obtain or renew a Commercial Driver's License as other authorized workers.

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.

The commenter is a former government bus operator who lost her job due to a non-domiciled rule affecting CDL holders. She argues that she is a qualified, safe driver who speaks English and requests that the exemption be granted so she can regain her license and employment.