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, each school district is required to utilize transportation services for their resident students. However, if a school district utilizes its own buses or vendors at a lower cost than the statewide system, these costs shall be submitted 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 that school committees cannot negotiate or renew transportation contracts without ensuring payments for school bus drivers and related personnel for at least 180 days. It emphasizes a preference for public transportation providers that utilize electric buses and outlines protections for employees covered by collective bargaining agreements, ensuring that no adverse disciplinary actions can be taken without proper investigation. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2849: 16-21.1-8