New Jersey Assembly Bill A4835

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 11/14/22
• Refer: 11/14/22
• Report Pass: 5/11/23
• Report Pass: 6/15/23
• Engrossed: 6/30/23

Caption

Permits certain persons to operate Type S school buses.

Impact

The enactment of A4835 will significantly impact New Jersey's transportation and safety regulations for school children. By allowing individuals with a valid non-commercial basic driver's license to transport children without additional commercial requirements, the bill aims to alleviate administrative burdens while ensuring that appropriate safety measures remain in place. Drivers will still be required to undergo training on interactions with students, particularly those with special needs, thereby maintaining a focus on student safety.

Summary

Bill A4835 permits individuals holding a Type S school bus certificate to operate a Type S school bus for the transportation of children to and from school without the necessity of obtaining a commercial driver license or school bus endorsement. This legislative action is primarily aimed at streamlining the process for eligible drivers who meet specific requirements, including age, driving history, and completion of mandatory training programs. The law defines a Type S school bus and establishes the criteria for a Type S school bus certificate, signifying a more accessible pathway for transporting students.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding A4835 relates to the measures imposed for driver accountability. The bill includes provisions to suspend a driver’s Type S school bus certificate for various offenses, including leaving a child on the bus or operating under suspended privileges. Critics worry that insufficient oversight could lead to safety risks, while supporters argue that the bill strikes a necessary balance between accessibility and safety enforcement.