Danielle Jackson

Washington, D.C. -- The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is developing a new rule that would prohibit states from issuing or renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL) for operating a hazardous waste-transporting motor vehicle until the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has conducted a background check. Once the investigation has been completed, the DOT then must determine that the applicant does not pose a threat, warranting denial of the license. The rule is required by section 1012 of the U.S. Patriot Act.