This bill allows the department of education and local school districts to contract with transportation network companies (TNCs) to provide school transportation services. The bill adds a new section to RSA 376-A, stating that the department of education or a school district may contract with a TNC to transport 8 persons or fewer to and from school or school-related activities. The contract with the TNC may establish the appropriate terms and conditions. The bill also allows the department of education or a school district to establish additional requirements in the contract with the TNC, and the department of education may issue guidance to school districts on contracting with TNCs for transportation services. TNCs are required to comply with the requirements in RSA 376-A:12 and provide an annual safety report to the state board of education. TNCs are also required to name any school district that contracts with them as an additional insured on their insurance policy. School districts that contract for transportation services with a TNC must provide notice to parents or guardians of students and allow them to opt out of using the TNC for transportation.

The bill also amends RSA 189:6-c to allow pupils to be transported in a mixed use school bus operated by a TNC driver. The operator of a mixed use school bus that qualifies as a commercial motor vehicle must hold a valid commercial driver's license appropriate for the type and class of bus being driven. Pupils with disabilities may also be transported in a mixed use school bus or by a TNC, unless their individualized education program or accommodation plan states otherwise. The bill takes effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 376-A:19, 189:6-c