Senate requires 30-minute human-trafficking training for CDL applicants, effective March 1, 2027

The Senate voted to pass House File 25 98, which requires applicants for a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to complete a human-trafficking prevention course as a condition of initial issuance.

Senator Costello explained that the adopted strike-after amendment conforms the Senate measure to House File 25 98 and sets training requirements: the course must be at least 30 minutes, offered in English, and, on issuance of a CDL, applicants need not retake the course. The Department of Transportation (DOT) will approve training materials in consultation with the Department of Education and the State Board of Education, must review and update materials at least once every three years, and may adopt rules under chapter 17A. The amendment applies on or after 03/01/2027 to accommodate DOT record-system updates.

The sponsor moved adoption of the amendment and the Senate adopted it. The chamber then read and passed the House file; the roll call was 44 ayes and 0 nays. Senator Costello honored Senator Rowley as the filer of the original Senate bill during floor remarks.

Next steps: The Senate ordered the bill messaged to the House and the sponsor requested and received unanimous consent to withdraw the original Senate filing.