Require new school buses to be equipped with lap-shoulder belts
Impact
The introduction of HB 344 represents a significant change in the transportation policies of school districts within Montana. By requiring lap-shoulder belts in school buses, the bill is expected to improve safety for students, potentially reducing injuries in the event of a bus accident. Additionally, the bill reduces certain registration fees for school buses equipped with these belts by 10%, thus providing a financial incentive for districts to comply with the new regulations. The successful implementation of this law could serve as a model for similar safety measures in other states.
Summary
House Bill 344 mandates that all new school buses purchased on or after January 1, 2024, must be equipped with lap-shoulder seat belts for each passenger. The bill outlines specific requirements for school districts, including the adoption of a publicly available usage policy for these seat belts and the obligation to ensure passengers use them. Furthermore, it states that liability for personal injury caused by improper usage or non-usage of these belts will not fall on the school district or its employees, provided they have implemented the required policy. This measure aims to enhance safety for school children during transportation.
Contention
While the bill has received support for its intentions concerning student safety, it has also sparked debate regarding issues of implementation and financial implications for school districts. Opponents express concerns about the responsibility placed on districts to maintain these safety policies and the financial burden that may arise from purchasing new buses equipped with lap-shoulder belts. The balancing of safety benefits against potential financial strains has become a notable point of contention in discussions surrounding HB 344.