NJ
New Jersey Assembly Bill A1254

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A1254

Introduced
1/11/22  

Caption

Directs BPU to develop and implement electric school bus pilot program.

Impact

The bill mandates the selection of at least three school districts or bus contractors from different regions of the state, ensuring that at least one district involves a low-income or environmentally affected community. The BPU is authorized to allocate up to $10 million in grants to support the procurement of electric buses and the necessary charging infrastructure. This move aligns with state goals for reducing carbon emissions and promoting greener alternatives to fossil fuels, potentially influencing future legislation and investments in environmental sustainability.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1254 establishes an Electric School Bus Pilot Program in New Jersey aimed at assessing the operational reliability and cost-efficiency of electric school buses compared to traditional diesel-powered buses. Managed by the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) in collaboration with various state departments, the program spans three years and intends to provide insights into the feasibility of widespread adoption of electric school buses for student transportation. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to sustainable transportation options in public education.

Contention

Opponents of the bill may raise concerns about the upfront costs and logistical challenges associated with transitioning to electric school buses, especially in districts with limited budgets. Supporters view this pilot program as a crucial step towards modernizing public transportation infrastructure, particularly within communities that have historically been underserved. The bill demonstrates a significant policy shift towards prioritizing environmental outcomes and may set a precedent for further innovations in transportation policy as it progresses through the legislative process.

Latest A1254 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

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