The bill amends Section 16-21.1-8 of the General Laws regarding the transportation of school pupils beyond city and town limits, establishing a statewide transportation system for all students (the "statewide system"). Under this new system, school districts are required to purchase transportation services for their resident students on a fee-for-service basis. However, districts that primarily use their own buses or employees for transportation can apply for a variance to continue doing so.

Additionally, if a district can transport students at a lower cost than the statewide system, they can submit these costs to the department of elementary and secondary education for reimbursement from state funds, similar to the reimbursement process for the statewide system.

The bill also includes provisions to ensure fair treatment of school transportation staff, requiring contracts to guarantee payment for bus drivers and aides for at least 180 days. It mandates that school committees give preference to public transportation providers that utilize electric buses and prohibits adverse disciplinary actions against transportation staff without proper investigation as outlined in collective bargaining agreements.

The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5204: 16-21.1-8