NJ
New Jersey Assembly Bill A3885

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A3885

Introduced
5/9/22  

Caption

Requires school bus drivers to submit to biannual testing for drugs and alcohol.

Impact

If enacted, the bill will amend existing statutes related to the regulation of school transportation. Specifically, it introduces a requirement for school bus drivers to provide evidence of drug and alcohol testing results twice a year. Furthermore, it establishes conditions under which a driver can be deemed ineligible to operate a bus, either due to failing the tests or refusing them. These provisions are intended to bolster accountability among school transportation providers, thereby aligning state laws with increasing safety standards.

Summary

Bill A3885, recently introduced in the New Jersey legislature, mandates that all school bus drivers undergo biannual drug and alcohol testing. This legislation arises out of growing concerns regarding the safety of school transportation, with an emphasis on ensuring that drivers do not operate under the influence of substances that could impair their ability to safely transport students. The proposed testing will be unannounced and is aimed at enhancing compliance with the 'New Jersey Controlled Dangerous Substances Act.' It's expected to create a safer environment for students during their commutes to and from school.

Contention

While proponents of Bill A3885 argue that mandatory testing is essential for student safety, there are concerns regarding the implications for driver employment rights. The bill stipulates that drivers cannot be terminated solely based on test results without first having an opportunity to challenge the findings through an established appeal process. This aspect aims to protect the rights of drivers while maintaining rigorous standards for school safety. However, the discussion surrounding potential discrepancies in drug testing accuracy and the associated personal and professional ramifications for drivers can generate contention among stakeholders.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NJ A422

Requires school bus drivers to submit to biannual testing for drugs and alcohol.

NJ S3144

Requires school bus drivers to submit to biannual testing for drugs and alcohol.

NJ A1910

Requires school bus contractor to provide information to board of education on results of criminal background checks of all school bus drivers assigned routes in district pursuant to contract.

NJ S1718

Requires school bus contractor to provide information to board of education on results of criminal background checks of all school bus drivers assigned routes in district pursuant to contract.

NJ A2180

Permits certain persons to operate Type S school buses.

NJ S459

Requires school bus driver's complete motor vehicle driving record be shared with board of education or school bus contractor and local police.

NJ A1931

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

NJ S1224

Establishes Office of School Bus Safety Coordinator in DOE to oversee school busing industry and ensure safe transportation of school students.

NJ A2615

Establishes Office of School Bus Safety Coordinator in DOE to oversee school busing industry and ensure safe transportation of school students.

NJ S1250

Establishes "School Bus Safety and Child Protection Act," requires periodic criminal background checks for certain school employees; and prohibits interference with school bus monitoring devices.

Similar Bills

NJ A422

Requires school bus drivers to submit to biannual testing for drugs and alcohol.

NJ S3144

Requires school bus drivers to submit to biannual testing for drugs and alcohol.

SD SB74

Revise provisions regarding out-of-service motor carrier violations.

OK HB2177

Motor vehicles; providing lifetime disqualification from operating commercial motor vehicles for certain felony conviction; effective date.

OK SB1116

Commercial motor vehicles; disqualifications from driving privileges for certain convictions or acts. Effective date.

NM HB144

Commercial Driver's License Requirements

IA HSB173

A bill for an act relating to the transferring, carrying, transportation, and possession of weapons by certain persons and in certain locations, and including effective date provisions.(See HF 654.)

IA SSB1168

A bill for an act relating to the transferring, carrying, transportation, and possession of weapons by certain persons and in certain locations, and including effective date provisions.(See SF 543.)