This bill amends the requirements for school bus drivers in Iowa regarding their authorization and the completion of approved courses of instruction. Under the new provisions, a school bus driver is required to hold a valid driver's license and a certificate of qualification from an authorized medical professional. However, the bill introduces a significant change by stating that a driver is not required to complete a department of education-approved course unless the employing school district mandates it. If a school district does require the course, the driver must complete it within the first six months of employment and every 24 months thereafter.

Additionally, the bill outlines the consequences for failing to provide proof of course completion. If a driver does not submit a certificate of completion when required, their authorization to operate a school bus will be revoked, and the employer must report this failure to the department of education. However, the bill allows for a driver whose authorization has been revoked to regain it without completing the course if they are employed by a school district that does not require such completion, provided they meet other eligibility criteria. This change aims to provide more flexibility for school bus drivers while maintaining safety standards as determined by individual school districts.