The bill, S.B. No. 159, mandates the establishment of an education and training program for public transportation vehicle operators to enhance their ability to interact with and support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including those with autism spectrum disorder. This requirement specifically applies to authorities created before 1980 in municipalities with populations under 1.9 million. The program must cover essential skills such as identifying and communicating with these individuals and assisting them in safely entering and exiting public transportation vehicles.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that no employee may operate a public transportation vehicle unless they have completed the training program. The rapid transit authorities are required to implement this training by March 1, 2026. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, with the specific training requirement taking effect a year later, on September 1, 2026.

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