Maine 2023-2024 Regular Session

Maine House Bill LD381

Introduced
1/31/23  
Refer
1/31/23  
Refer
1/31/23  

Caption

An Act to Increase School Bus Safety by Requiring Monitors

Impact

If enacted, LD381 would directly modify existing state transportation laws to necessitate the employment of monitors on school buses. This change is expected to not only promote greater safety for students but also alleviate some of the responsibilities placed on bus drivers. It aims to foster a more focused driving environment, which could lead to reduced instances of accidents due to distraction. Overall, the bill represents a proactive approach to ensuring student safety during commutes.

Summary

LD381 is an Act aimed at increasing school bus safety by requiring the presence of monitors on school buses. The intent behind this bill is to help bus drivers concentrate on driving without the distraction of managing student behavior. By implementing this requirement, the bill seeks to create a safer environment for students while they commute to and from school. The overarching goal is to enhance the safety mechanisms currently in place within school transportation systems to reduce potential accidents or incidents involving students.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding LD381 appears to be generally supportive, particularly among parents, educators, and safety advocates who prioritize child welfare. Supporters argue that the presence of monitors will make a significant difference in maintaining discipline and safety amongst students during transit. However, some concerns may arise regarding the funding and logistics of implementing such a requirement, particularly in terms of hiring trained monitors and the associated costs of staffing.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding LD381 may focus on the financial implications of requiring monitors on all school buses. Stakeholders may debate whether the state or individual school districts should bear the costs, and how this measure could affect budgets already tight for many school systems. Additionally, discussions may arise concerning the effectiveness of monitors in improving safety versus the resource allocation needed to implement this bill properly.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME HB356

School Bus Stops – Monitoring Cameras and Safety Measures

ME SB406

School Bus Stops - Monitoring Cameras and Safety Measures

ME A545

Authorizes use of school bus monitoring systems.

ME A1432

Authorizes use of school bus monitoring systems.

ME S1469

Authorizes use of school bus monitoring systems.

ME S2804

Authorizes use of school bus monitoring systems.

ME AB934

Schoolbuses: video monitoring systems.

ME HB05462

An Act Requiring The Installation Of Seat Safety Belts On School Buses.

ME H5421

Requires all school buses be equipped with video monitoring system.

ME HB686

Public Schools – Health and Safety – Carbon Dioxide Monitoring in Classrooms (Safe School Indoor Air Act)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.