This bill mandates that all school bus drivers, including those employed by boards of education and private or parochial schools, undergo biannual unannounced medical testing for drugs and alcohol. The testing will check for the presence of substances as defined by the "New Jersey Controlled Dangerous Substances Act." The timing of these tests will be determined by the employing board or contractor, who will also receive the results. If a driver tests positive or refuses to take the test, they will be immediately disqualified from operating a school bus. Additionally, the Commissioner of Education is tasked with establishing criteria for disqualification and creating an appeal process for drivers who wish to contest their disqualification based on testing results.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing laws to require that evidence of the medical testing be filed annually with the county superintendent before any driver is assigned to operate a school bus. This includes the submission of the driver's name, social security number, valid school bus driver's license, criminal background check, and records of any alcohol and drug-related motor vehicle violations. The new requirements aim to enhance the safety of school transportation by ensuring that drivers are not under the influence of harmful substances while transporting students.