Key Takeaways

• Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy will pull $160 million in federal funding from California.
• He also threatens to remove the state’s ability to issue commercial driver’s licenses.
• The move follows a deadly crash caused by an undocumented truck driver.
• Governor Newsom is accused of prioritizing undocumented drivers over public safety.
• California must comply with a federal audit or face deeper funding cuts.

Sean Duffy Threatens California Funding Cut

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy confirmed that the federal government is about to pull $160 million from California. He made this promise after a deadly crash in southern California killed three people and injured four. The alleged driver was a 21-year-old undocumented immigrant. Duffy also repeated his threat to strip California of its power to issue commercial driver’s licenses.

Why California Funding Cut Could Happen

First, this fight began when Duffy said he would withhold $40 million from California earlier this month. Then, after the crash, he raised the total threat to $200 million. Moreover, a federal report blamed Governor Gavin Newsom for weak oversight of commercial driver’s licenses. As a result, the report set a deadline for California to fix its licensing rules. If the state does not follow the audit, the California funding cut will go into effect.

Governor Newsom Faces Harsh Criticism

Duffy accused Newsom of caring more about giving licenses to undocumented migrants than protecting citizens. He called the governor’s actions “shameful” and claimed Newsom has lied about his immigration policies. In response, Newsom’s office said the state team is working to meet federal audit requirements. Nevada and New Jersey already passed similar audits without losing licenses.

What This Means for California Roads

If the federal government enforces the California funding cut:

• Road repair budgets could shrink by millions.
• Safety programs for schools and highways may see budget cuts.
• Local transit projects might stall or get canceled.
• California could not issue new commercial driver’s licenses until it complies.

How California Can Avoid the Funding Cut

To stop the California funding cut, the state must complete the federal audit quickly. The audit reviews all steps in the license process, from application to final approval. California must also prove it checks immigration status properly. Additionally, the state needs to update training and testing standards for new drivers. If all changes meet federal rules, the funding will stay intact.

The Role of the Federal Audit

The Department of Transportation audit looks at several key areas:

• How states verify personal information.
• Background checks for commercial driver’s license applicants.
• Record keeping of test results and licenses issued.
• Renewals and monitoring of existing licenses.

California has 60 days to finish the audit. If it fails, the California funding cut will start immediately.

Potential Impact on Trucking and Business

A pause on issuing commercial licenses could strain trucking companies. Many drivers need new licenses or renewals to stay on the road. As a result, shipping costs could rise and delivery times could slow. Businesses across the state depend on timely freight movement. Thus, a licensing freeze risks slowing down commerce.

Voices from Both Sides

Supporters of Duffy’s move say strict federal rules protect public safety. They argue no state should relax checks for political reasons. Meanwhile, critics say the threat punishes innocent drivers and hurts small businesses. They claim a full audit can happen without hitting state budgets.

What Comes Next

Now, California must prove it can follow federal licensing rules. Governor Newsom’s team will meet with federal officials to set a clear plan. Meanwhile, Duffy vows to watch every step. If the state stalls, he will act on his threat. Ultimately, this fight shows how federal power can influence state policies on immigration and public safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly triggers the California funding cut?

The state missed federal deadlines to audit and improve its commercial driver’s license process. The deadly crash accelerated the threat.

Can California regain funding after a cut?

Yes. Once the state completes the federal audit and updates its rules, funding can be restored.

How will this affect personal drivers?

Regular driver’s licenses are not affected. Only commercial driver’s licenses face suspension.

Has any other state faced a similar threat?

Yes. New Jersey and Nevada underwent audits but avoided funding cuts by meeting federal requirements.