New Jersey Assembly Bill A1931

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Creates Office of School Bus Safety in Department of Education; appropriates $200,000.

Impact

If approved, the bill would lead to the appropriation of $200,000 from the General Fund to support the establishment and operations of the Office of School Bus Safety. The bill emphasizes accountability and authority within the education department regarding the oversight of bus safety, which is significant given the concerns related to student safety during school transportation. Additionally, there will be requirements for annual reporting to the Governor and Legislature regarding the office's activities and effectiveness.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1931 proposes the creation of the Office of School Bus Safety within the New Jersey Department of Education. This new office is tasked with overseeing all school bus safety and oversight activities. Its responsibilities include reviewing school bus driver information, ensuring that all training certifications are complete, and verifying that school bus drivers with suspended licenses are not operating buses. This centralization aims to enhance the safety of school bus operations across the state.

Contention

There may be concerns regarding the adequacy of the funding and resources allocated for this new office, particularly in ensuring that it can effectively fulfill its mandate. Discussions around the creation of such an office might also raise questions about the efficiency of existing safety regulations and whether the establishment of a new office adds unnecessary bureaucracy to the process or truly enhances safety and accountability.