Relating to certain requirements for school bus emergency evacuation training.
Impact
The bill modifies existing regulations by specifying that at least one emergency training session should occur during the school year and includes a requirement for students and teachers to view a video demonstrating the proper evacuation procedures. Additionally, the bill reinforces that a portion of the training must take place on an actual school bus. These changes are designed to ensure that both students and staff are adequately trained to respond effectively in emergency situations, thereby improving overall safety standards on school buses.
Summary
SB635, introduced by Senator Seliger, aims to amend the Education Code regarding the requirements for school bus emergency evacuation training. The bill mandates that school districts conduct emergency evacuation training at least once each school year. This structured requirement is intended to enhance the safety of students by ensuring they are well-prepared for unexpected emergencies while on school transportation.
Contention
While the bill seeks to enhance safety procedures, there may be concerns regarding resource allocation for schools, particularly in districts that may lack the funding to conduct these sessions adequately. Additionally, there could be discussions around the effectiveness of the proposed video training compared to hands-on practice, as well as potential pushback from parents and educators regarding the new requirements and their implications for scheduling and school resources.