Oklahoma Senate Bill SB696

Oklahoma 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/3/25
• Refer: 2/4/25

Caption

Schools; removing language requiring school transportation vehicles of certain capacity to have certain words painted on them. Effective date. Emergency.

Impact

If enacted, SB696 would update the existing statute affecting how school transportation is regulated in Oklahoma. The removal of mandatory vehicle markings could simplify compliance for school districts and transportation contractors. This legislation could potentially reduce costs associated with retrofitting or redoing vehicle branding, thereby allowing for a more efficient allocation of resources in school transportation budgets.

Summary

Senate Bill 696, authored by Senator Pugh, aims to amend Oklahoma's school transportation regulations under 70 O.S. 2021, Section 9-103. The bill proposes to remove the requirement for school transportation vehicles with a capacity of ten passengers or more to have the words 'SCHOOL BUS' painted on both the front and rear of the vehicles. This change intends to modernize statutory language and eliminate what may be seen as an outdated requirement for vehicle markings.

Contention

While the bill may streamline vehicle regulations, there could be arguments regarding public safety. Opponents may raise concerns that eliminating the 'SCHOOL BUS' signage could reduce visibility and recognition of school vehicles, potentially impacting the safety of children during transportation. Proponents might argue that new technologies and improved awareness among drivers mitigate the need for such markings.