The bill amends Washington state law to enhance the flexibility and safety of student transportation by allowing school districts to use a variety of vehicles for transporting students. It encourages districts to utilize safe and cost-effective vehicles, including traditional school buses and other alternatives, while ensuring that transportation funding is not limited to specific vehicle types. Additionally, the bill mandates that each district report on the number of eligible students transported and the miles driven per vehicle type, thereby improving transparency and accountability in transportation services. New definitions and categories for student transportation vehicles are established, and the superintendent of public instruction is tasked with developing rules for drivers, ensuring they have the necessary qualifications without requiring a commercial driver's license for all.

Furthermore, the bill revises existing laws regarding commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) and introduces new definitions and exceptions for specific vehicle operators. It clarifies various driving classifications for CDL holders and outlines the requirements for drivers of commercial motor vehicles, emphasizing the necessity of a valid CDL unless they meet certain exceptions. Notably, the bill adds an exception for individuals operating student transportation vehicles other than school buses, broadening the scope of who can drive without a CDL. The legislation also sets a timeline for implementation, with an effective date of September 1, 2026, aiming to modernize and clarify regulations surrounding commercial driving while accommodating specific operational needs.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.160.150, 28A.160.170, 28A.160.180, 28A.160.195, 28A.160.210
Substitute Bill: 28A.160.150, 28A.160.170, 28A.160.180, 28A.160.195, 28A.160.210, 46.25.010, 46.25.050
Engrossed Substitute: 28A.160.150, 28A.160.170, 28A.160.180, 28A.160.195, 28A.160.210, 46.25.010, 46.25.050
Bill as Passed Legislature: 28A.160.150, 28A.160.170, 28A.160.180, 28A.160.195, 28A.160.210, 46.25.010, 46.25.050
Session Law: 28A.160.150, 28A.160.170, 28A.160.180, 28A.160.195, 28A.160.210, 46.25.010, 46.25.050