Hawaii Senate Bill SCR207

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/16/22

Caption

Urging The Department Of Education To Convene A Working Group To Address The State's School Bus Driver Shortage.

Impact

The resolution reflects a growing national concern about bus driver shortages, which, according to a survey by the National Association for Pupil Transportation, has led to reported crises in 78% of school districts across the country. Specifically in Hawaii, the Department of Education reported a shortfall of 100 drivers out of 650 positions, translating to a shortage rate exceeding 15%. This shortfall has resulted in the temporary suspension of numerous bus routes, leaving families with limited options for transporting their children to school.

Summary

SCR207 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution from the Thirty-first Legislature of Hawaii, urging the Department of Education to assemble a working group focused on addressing the significant shortage of school bus drivers in the state. This resolution recognizes the critical importance of reliable school bus services to ensure student attendance, especially for families residing in rural areas or those facing socioeconomic challenges. The urgency of this issue has been heightened following the COVID-19 pandemic, which exacerbated existing staffing shortages as many drivers exited the profession due to health concerns, furloughs, or personal decisions related to the pandemic.

Conclusion

SCR207 represents a proactive step by Hawaii's legislature to mitigate the impacts of an ongoing national crisis affecting educational transportation. By convening a working group, the resolution aims to gather insights and propose tangible legislative measures to alleviate the bus driver shortage. The outcomes of this initiative will be critical for ensuring consistent school services, thus fostering educational stability for students across the state.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SCR207 include discussions regarding the composition of the working group, which is to include representatives from various transportation agencies and private companies involved in school bus services. There may be debates on the effectiveness of proposed solutions, such as financial incentives, and whether such measures can adequately address the underlying challenges leading to the driver shortage. Additionally, stakeholders may express differing views on how best to ensure that school transportation services meet the needs of all students while considering fiscal limitations and public safety.