New York Senate Bill S07660

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/25/25
• Refer: 4/25/25

Caption

Details the procedure that certain school districts must follow when dealing with disciplinary actions for bus drivers and bus drivers' assistants.

Impact

The proposed changes will create a more structured and protective environment for bus drivers and assistants by requiring school districts to conform to existing labor agreements when disciplining employees. Specifically, the bill emphasizes the necessity for a superintendent to certify any wrongdoing that would justify expediting disciplinary actions, which in turn mandates that districts adhere to a strict timeline for resolving disputes. This could potentially minimize arbitrary or unjust disciplinary measures and ensure employees retain their rights during such processes.

Summary

S07660 is a bill aimed at amending the education law in relation to the disciplinary procedures for bus drivers and bus driver's assistants within New York school districts. The bill explicitly details that in districts wholly located in the counties of Westchester, Putnam, Nassau, and Suffolk, any contracts related to the employment and disciplinary actions of bus drivers must adhere to the terms set forth in collectively bargained agreements. This ensures that the rights and protections provided under these agreements are upheld in cases where adverse disciplinary actions are considered against drivers or assistants.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding S07660 is the balance between ensuring student safety and protecting the rights of employees. While proponents of the bill argue it provides necessary protections for workers against unjust treatment, opponents may raise concerns that the stringent requirements for certifying misconduct could delay the ability to address serious safety concerns involving bus drivers. This tension highlights the ongoing debate about the appropriate measures needed to keep both students and educational staff safe while maintaining fair employment practices.