Maryland 2024 Regular Session

Maryland Senate Bill SB724

Introduced
1/31/24  

Caption

Motor Vehicles - School Buses - Seat Belts

Impact

Significantly, SB724 stipulates that all newly purchased school buses after October 1, 2024, must be equipped with accessible seat belts for every passenger. School buses currently operating must comply with this requirement by October 1, 2026. This transition is expected to increase overall safety measures for students being transported to and from school, promoting responsible behavior and compliance with safety protocols.

Summary

Senate Bill 724 mandates comprehensive safety education regarding school bus safety, specifically focusing on the proper use of seat belts for students. This legislation requires public schools to integrate lessons on school bus safety into their safety education programs. It also prohibits students from standing while the bus is in motion, ensuring that all pupils are secured within their seats. The bill emphasizes the critical role of education in promoting safety among school-aged children.

Contention

Despite the positive aim of enhancing student safety, there may be concerns regarding the financial implications for school districts tasked with upgrading or purchasing compliant vehicles. Furthermore, the implementation timeline could lead to challenges in ensuring that all relevant parties understand and adhere to the new regulations. The requirement for public education about seat belt use could also necessitate additional resources for training and curriculum development.

Companion Bills

MD HB196

Crossfiled Motor Vehicles - School Buses - Seat Belts

Previously Filed As

MD SB11

Motor Vehicles - Establishment of School Zones

MD HB1287

Motor Vehicles - School Bus Monitoring Cameras - Issuance of Citations

MD SB961

Motor Vehicles - School Bus Monitoring Cameras - Issuance of Citations

MD HB71

Motor Vehicles - School Vehicle Drivers - Medical Examinations

MD HB1207

Motor Vehicles - Motorcycles - Passenger Restrictions

MD HB492

Anne Arundel County - School Vehicles - Duration of Operation

MD SB374

Motor Vehicle Registration - Exceptions for Golf Carts and Low Speed Vehicles - Cobb Island

MD HB1193

Consumer Protection - Motor Vehicles - Right to Repair

MD HB1173

Motor Vehicles - Recreational Vehicle Dealer Agreements

MD HB966

Motor Vehicles - Modified Exhaust Systems and Noise Abatement Devices - Testing and Penalties

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.