Lawsuit Targets California DMV Over Administrative Failures Affecting 20,000 CDL Drivers

A class-action lawsuit has been filed against the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) challenging the agency’s plan to cancel approximately 20,000 commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) held by immigrant drivers. The suit, brought by the Asian Law Caucus, Sikh Coalition, and Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP, argues that the cancellations stem from the DMV’s own administrative errors – specifically, mismatched CDL expiration dates and work authorization documents – and violate state law requiring drivers to have an immediate opportunity to reapply for corrected licenses.

The issue arose from the DMV sending cancellation notices to drivers, citing new federal guidelines that have since been stayed by a court. The agency acknowledged “shortcomings of its technical systems and processes” led to the errors. Plaintiffs include drivers whose livelihoods depend on their CDLs, highlighting the potential for widespread unemployment and disruption to supply chains. The lawsuit asserts violations of due process and argues the DMV is exceeding its statutory authority.

The situation is complicated by separate federal regulations regarding CDL eligibility for non-domiciled drivers, but the lawsuit focuses on the DMV’s administrative failings. The plaintiffs seek a court order halting the cancellations and requiring the DMV to allow drivers to immediately reapply for corrected licenses, arguing that California has a “moral obligation and legal duty” to protect these workers.

(Source：Freightwaves)