Texas 2021 - 87th 3rd C.S.

Texas House Bill HCR12

Caption

Urging Congress to pass legislation that would grant licensing authority for public school bus drivers to the states.

Impact

The resolution calls for a reevaluation of federal mandates that govern school bus driver licensing. It argues that state-specific regulations could better meet local needs and potentially alleviate the current driver shortage by streamlining the licensing process. By allowing states more flexibility in licensing, districts may find it easier to recruit new drivers, thereby enhancing the efficiency of school transportation services. This change could lead to improved student safety and better educational outcomes due to more reliable transport systems.

Summary

HCR12 urges Congress to grant state licensing authority for public school bus drivers, addressing the ongoing shortage of drivers impacting school districts across Texas and the nation. The resolution highlights the necessity of school buses for transporting over 26 million students daily and points to federal licensing requirements that have created obstacles in recruiting and retaining qualified drivers. The difficulties are primarily attributed to the Commercial Driver's License (CDL) requirements which have imposed barriers that vary by state and make it challenging for prospective drivers to complete the necessary training and testing.

Contention

While the bill emphasizes the benefits of state control over driver licensing, it raises questions about the effectiveness of federal standards in ensuring driver safety and qualifications. Proponents argue that the lengthy and complicated federal requirements hinder the ability of school districts to maintain their buses effectively, while opponents may warn that loosening regulations could compromise safety. The discussion may also touch on whether the federal government has an essential role in ensuring uniform standards across states or if local jurisdictions should have complete authority over their qualifications.

Companion Bills

TX SCR3

Same As Urging Congress to pass legislation that would grant licensing authority for public school bus drivers to the states.

Previously Filed As

TX HCR46

Urging Congress to pass legislation to protect children from the harms of social media.

TX HCR33

Urging Congress to pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act.

TX HCR31

Urging Congress to overturn the "Factoring Criteria for Firearms with Attached 'Stabilizing Braces'" rule via the Congressional Review Act.

TX SCR28

Urging Congress to repeal the Government Pension Offset and the Windfall Elimination Provision of the Social Security Act.

TX HCR20

Urging Congress to repeal the Government Pension Offset and the Windfall Elimination Provision of the Social Security Act.

TX HCR50

Urging Congress to raise the federal minimum wage to $15 per hour.

TX HCR49

Urging Congress to pass the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act.

TX HR2439

In memory of former U.S. Congressman Charlie Stenholm of Granbury.

TX HCR76

Urging Congress to repeal the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act of 1986.

TX HCR60

Urging Congress to repeal the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA).

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.