The bill amends Section 1 of P.L.1981, c.51 (C.18A:39-20.1) to allow boards of education, nonpublic school governing bodies, or State agencies to authorize qualified personnel, including parents, to transport school children in private vehicles with a capacity of eight or fewer. To be deemed qualified, designated personnel must meet specific criteria, including being at least 21 years old, holding a valid New Jersey driver's license for at least three years, passing a criminal history background check, and completing a training program for interacting with students with special needs. The bill also stipulates that these designated drivers are not required to be licensed as school bus drivers and that the transportation is exempt from typical school bus regulations.

Additionally, the bill allows certified mobility assistance vehicle technicians to transport students with medical needs in mobility assistance vehicles without being licensed as school bus drivers. These technicians must provide a criminal history background check and evidence of their driving record prior to transporting students. The bill emphasizes the importance of submitting driving records and lists of designated drivers to the Executive County Superintendent to ensure compliance and safety. The act will take effect at the beginning of the first full school year following its enactment, with provisions for anticipatory administrative actions by the Commissioner of Education.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2C:40-26.1, 18A:39-19.5, 18A:39-29, 18A:39-30, 39:3-10.1
Advance Law: 2C:40-26.1, 18A:39-19.5, 18A:39-29, 18A:39-30, 39:3-10.1
Pamphlet Law: 18A:39-20.1