Senate Bill 408 amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 29-20-107(h), to clarify the liability of governmental entities and local boards of education regarding independent school bus contractors. The bill specifies that these entities will not extend the immunity typically granted under this chapter to independent school bus contractors when they are providing school-related transportation services. This change aims to ensure that independent contractors are held accountable for their actions while performing these services.

Additionally, the bill mandates that contracts between local boards of education and independent school bus contractors must include provisions for sufficient tort liability coverage as required by applicable law. This includes the necessity for evidence of such coverage, which may be demonstrated through a certificate of insurance that lists the local board of education as an additional insured party. The act is set to take effect upon becoming law, emphasizing the importance of public welfare in its implementation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 29-20-107(h), 29-20-107