Requires public school governing authorities to allow students to walk to school under certain circumstances
Impact
The legislation aims to enhance the transportation flexibility for families, recognizing that not all students require bus services when they live close to school. By allowing students to walk, it may also foster a sense of independence in children and promote healthier, more active lifestyles. Additionally, it potentially alleviates traffic congestion around schools during pick-up and drop-off times. However, this provision places responsibility on parents to ensure their children’s safety during their commute.
Summary
House Bill 66, introduced by Representative Magee, mandates that public school governing authorities allow students who reside within one mile of their school to walk to and from school, provided they have parental permission. This bill amends existing transportation policies that traditionally required local school boards to provide cost-free transportation to students living beyond a mile from the school. The new stipulation opens the option for students residing close to their school to pursue alternative forms of transportation, or to walk, with a requirement that elementary students must be accompanied by a responsible adult during this process.
Sentiment
The general sentiment regarding HB 66 reflects a cautious optimism. Supporters commend the bill for empowering families with more choices regarding their children's transportation while fostering independence and physical activity. However, concerns loom regarding the safety of children walking to school, especially in areas with high vehicle traffic. The requirement for elementary students to be accompanied by an adult addresses some safety concerns but may not fully alleviate fears from parents.
Contention
Notable points of contention around HB 66 revolve primarily around the implications for student safety. Critics argue that while the legislation encourages independence, it could expose children to risks, especially in neighborhoods without safe walking paths or in locations with heavy traffic. Advocacy around the necessity for robust safety measures to be in place, such as crossings, supervised routes, and other infrastructural support, highlights ongoing debates between promoting autonomy and ensuring child safety.
Requires public school governing authorities and charter schools to adopt policies or provide in bus transportation service agreements relative to the location of the loading or unloading of students
Requires the state Department of Education to provide student attendance data of certain students to local school governing authorities. (gov sig) (EN NO IMPACT See Note)
Provides relative to reporting, instructional, and other requirements for school employees, school governing authorities, and schools (EG SEE FISC NOTE LF EX See Note)
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Allows each public school governing authority to determine the education content standards and assessments to be used in the schools under its jurisdiction. (gov sig)
Relating to the creation of and the powers of a comprehensive multimodal urban transportation authority, including the power to impose taxes, issue bonds, and exercise limited eminent domain authority.