The bill amends the Pupil Transportation Act to enhance safety regulations for the transportation of pupils by school buses and public transit agencies. It stipulates that all school buses must meet or exceed federal motor vehicle safety standards and allows for the transportation of pupils with disabilities in mobile seating devices that comply with federal standards. Additionally, it prohibits the use of vehicles with a seating capacity of 11 or more passengers, excluding certain motor buses and public transit vehicles, for transporting pupils unless they meet specific safety criteria.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new section (10b) that permits schools to contract with public transit agencies for pupil transportation only when no other viable options are available. The contract must ensure that the transit agency's vehicles comply with safety regulations, and it outlines various requirements for drivers, including age, driving record, and adherence to corporal punishment and restraint regulations. The bill also mandates that public transit vehicles pick up and drop off pupils at designated locations without requiring them to cross roadways, and it includes provisions for vehicle inspections and safety measures during pupil loading and unloading.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 257.1810