The bill amends the Pupil Transportation Act by updating the language regarding the safety standards for school buses and the transportation of pupils. Specifically, it mandates that all school buses owned or operated by public or private nonpublic schools, their agents, private businesses, or government units must "meet or exceed" federal motor vehicle safety standards for construction and seating. Additionally, it allows for the transportation of pupils with disabilities using mobile seating devices in compliance with federal standards.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that vehicles used for transporting pupils to or from school or school-related events must not exceed the manufacturer's rated seating capacity. The previous language that prohibited the use of vehicles with a capacity of 11 or more passengers, including the driver, for this purpose has been removed. This change clarifies the regulations surrounding the use of non-school bus vehicles for pupil transportation.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 257.1810