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

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new section (10b) that allows schools to contract with public transit agencies for pupil transportation only when no other suitable 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 the transit agency's vehicles pick up and drop off students at designated locations that do not require crossing roadways, and it includes provisions for vehicle inspections and safety measures during loading and unloading.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 257.1810