WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — A new federal rule is set to affect roughly 200,000 immigrant truck drivers across the United States, raising concerns about supply chains, labor shortages, and rising costs. The policy, introduced under the Trump administration, took effect Monday and changes how certain immigrants can obtain or renew commercial driver’s licenses. The rule has sparked debate across the trucking industry and among legal advocates. Supporters say it will improve safety. Critics argue it could hurt the economy and unfairly target immigrant workers.

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s rule prevents some categories of immigrants from renewing or obtaining commercial driver’s licenses, also known as CDLs. The policy applies to asylum seekers, refugees, and recipients of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA.

Drivers who already hold valid licenses will not lose them immediately. However, they will not be able to renew those licenses once they expire. As a result, many could lose their legal ability to work as truck drivers in the coming months. Industry experts estimate that about 200,000 drivers could be affected nationwide.

The trucking industry plays a key role in the U.S. economy. Trucks move more than 70% of all freight, including food, fuel, machinery, and medical supplies. Any disruption to this workforce can have wide effects. Many companies already struggle with driver shortages, high turnover rates, and rising fuel costs. The ongoing war in Iran has also pushed energy prices higher, adding pressure to transportation companies.

Industry leaders warn that losing thousands of drivers could tighten capacity. This could slow deliveries and increase shipping costs. In turn, businesses may pass those higher costs on to consumers. Some analysts say the impact may not be immediate. Still, they expect long-term strain if companies cannot quickly replace experienced drivers.

The rule has already triggered legal action from drivers and advocacy groups. They argue that the policy unfairly targets immigrants without clear evidence that they pose safety risks.

In California, a court has issued a tentative ruling allowing more than 20,000 immigrant drivers to keep their licenses temporarily. The decision offers short-term relief while legal challenges move forward. Lawyers representing affected drivers say the rule disrupts lives and careers. Many of these drivers have worked legally in the industry for years and have clean driving records.

Supporters of the rule, including Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, say the policy strengthens safety standards. They argue that stricter licensing rules ensure that all drivers meet proper verification requirements.

However, critics dispute that claim. They point out that all truck drivers, regardless of background, must complete training and pass the same tests to obtain a CDL. They say no data shows that immigrant drivers are less safe on the road. This disagreement has become a central issue in the ongoing legal battles.

Experts say the rule could have broader economic consequences. A reduced driver pool may force companies to increase wages to attract new workers. While that may benefit some drivers, it could also raise operating costs for businesses. Higher transportation costs often lead to higher prices for goods. Consumers may feel the impact in everyday expenses, from groceries to household items. Small and mid-sized trucking companies may face the greatest challenges. Many rely on immigrant drivers to fill critical roles and maintain operations.

The future of the rule remains uncertain as court challenges continue. Some states may take additional steps to protect affected drivers, while federal agencies defend the policy. For now, many drivers face an unclear path forward as they wait to see whether they can continue working legally in the industry.