The bill amends the definition of a "Pupil Transportation Vehicle" in Chapter 31-22.1 of the General Laws, specifically in Section 31-22.1-1. The amendment changes the maximum seating capacity of such vehicles from eight (8) passengers to ten (10) passengers, including the operator. This change allows school committees to use vehicles with a slightly larger capacity to provide transportation services to students along established school transportation routes, particularly when only a small number of students are being conveyed.
The bill specifies that the amended definition applies to the transportation services required by law or regulation, referencing specific sections of the law that govern student transportation. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage, indicating that the change will be implemented without delay once the bill is enacted. The explanation provided by the Legislative Council clarifies that the primary purpose of the bill is to increase the passenger limit for pupil transportation vehicles.
Statutes affected: 495: 31-22.1-1