State Board of Education; include instruction in the proper use of a school bus passenger restraint system within its program of safety instruction; require
Impact
The passage of SB322 will significantly alter existing laws governing school transportation and safety protocols. It aligns state regulations with contemporary safety standards, which could potentially lower the risk of injuries during transportation. By creating a framework for mandatory training and compliance, the bill seeks to improve the overall safety of students traveling on school buses, fostering a more secure environment for their commutes to and from school.
Summary
Senate Bill 322 aims to enhance safety measures within the Georgia school transportation system by mandating the inclusion of passenger restraint systems in school buses. The bill requires the State Board of Education to provide instruction on the proper use of these restraint systems as part of their safety instruction programs. Furthermore, it stipulates that all school buses manufactured and used in the state must be equipped with these restraint systems by July 1, 2027, ensuring that children are securely restrained while the bus is in motion.
Contention
While the bill has received support for enhancing student safety, it has also faced scrutiny regarding implementation costs and the responsibility placed on school bus drivers to enforce restraint use. Concerns have been raised about the financial burden of retrofitting buses with restraint systems and the potential for penalties against drivers if compliance is not met. Additionally, the provision for exemptions based on medical conditions requires careful consideration to prevent misuse and ensure that genuine needs are accommodated appropriately.
Safety Belts in Passenger Vehicles; occupants of a passenger vehicle, whether in a front seat or back seat, shall be restrained by a seat safety belt; provide
Education; local boards of education which operate a school with grades nine through 12 may provide instruction in lifeguarding and aquatic safety; provide
Quality Basic Education Act; course of study in sex education and HIV/AIDS prevention instruction is age appropriate and provides instruction on consent and intimate partner violence and abuse
Instruction Permits; restrictions upon the operation of Class C motor vehicles by Class D license holders with certain passengers in the vehicle; revise
State Board of Education; establish five-year pilot program to incentivize qualified local units of administration to utilize school bus monitors; provisions