The bill amends Section 16-21.1-2 of the General Laws regarding the transportation of school pupils beyond city and town limits. It establishes school bus districts to ensure safe transportation for students in grades kindergarten through twelve, including those in special education programs. Specifically, the bill removes the towns of Warren and Bristol from school bus district Region III and places them in school bus district Region V.

The bill also outlines the specific towns and cities included in each region. Additionally, it mandates that pupils attending various types of schools, including public, vocational, and nonpublic nonprofit schools, are provided with bus transportation by their respective school committees. The cost of transportation for students attending charter schools or specific technical high schools will be charged to the receiving school at the same rate as the resident district. This act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
8548: 16-21.1-2