[Athen] Question About Accommodations and New CDL English Requirements

[Sean Loraas via athen-list]

Hi all,

I’m reaching out with a mix of pride and concern.

A former student with severe dyslexia recently passed his commercial
driver’s license (CDL) exam—a huge accomplishment made possible by
accommodations that allowed him to access test content and demonstrate his
knowledge. It’s a powerful example of how access and equity in licensing
processes can open doors to meaningful employment.

Unfortunately, he’s now worried that he may face new barriers on the job.

He’s concerned about a recent executive order issued by the Trump
administration that reportedly requires commercial drivers to be able to
read and write English if stopped or inspected. From what I understand,
this could potentially impact individuals with disabilities—like dyslexia
or low vision—who may use assistive technology, need extra time, or process
written information differently.

I’m trying to find out more about the following:

   -

   How is this order currently being implemented and enforced?
   -

   Are roadside inspectors or others tasked with enforcement trained to
   recognize and accommodate individuals with documented disabilities?
   -

   Are there provisions to ensure compliance with existing disability
   rights laws (such as the ADA and Section 504) in how these requirements are
   evaluated?

If anyone has insight, official guidance, or contacts who might know more
about how accommodations are—or should be—applied in this context, I’d be
very grateful.

Thank you,
Sean Loraas
Accessibility Technician
Austin Community College – Alt Text and Media
sloraas at austincc.edu
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