State Representative Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville) raised concerns on Mar. 18 regarding the issuance of Commercial Drivers Licenses (CDLs) to undocumented immigrants by the Illinois Secretary of State’s office. Speaking on the House Floor, Halbrook said there are risks associated with allowing unvetted individuals to obtain CDLs and called for immediate action.
Halbrook said, “Illinois is the transportation hub of America. Our roads carry traffic from every direction — north, south, east, and west. If Illinois fails to protect the integrity of commercial licensing, the consequences do not stop at our state line. This threatens Illinois families, interstate commerce, and public safety across the nation.”
He cited several incidents since 2025 in which American motorists were injured or killed by drivers whose legal status was in question. “These incidents in Indiana, California, Washington, and Florida are not isolated. Illinois residents deserve to know that the person driving an 80,000-pound truck next to their family has been legally cleared, fully vetted, and properly licensed,” Halbrook said.
Halbrook outlined a series of steps he believes Illinois should take: conduct an immediate review of all recently issued non-domiciled CDLs; halt new issuances until verification protocols meet federal standards; work with federal authorities to ensure compliance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration rules; and report transparently to the public about measures taken to protect families.
Halbrook was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois’ 107th House District in 2023 after replacing Blaine Wilhour according to available information. He is currently serving his seventh term representing communities across Macon, Shelby, Christian, Effingham, Montgomery, Cumberland, and Moultrie counties.
The broader implications of Halbrook’s remarks center on public safety and regulatory compliance within Illinois’ transportation sector. The issue may prompt further legislative review or changes in how CDLs are issued in the state.
