Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB395

Introduced
8/29/25  

Caption

Equipment of school buses with audiovisual recording devices.

Impact

This legislation is expected to influence state laws concerning student safety by making audiovisual monitoring a standard practice within school transport systems. By allowing the use of recording devices, proponents argue it will help deter inappropriate behavior and serve as a valuable resource in the event of disputes or incidents involving students on buses. The confidentiality of recordings is also addressed in the bill, limiting access to school officials and law enforcement for official investigations and disciplinary actions, thus safeguarding student privacy.

Summary

Assembly Bill 395 proposes the authorization for equipping school buses with audiovisual recording devices that capture audio and/or video of the interior while transporting students. This initiative seeks to enhance safety measures for students during their commute to and from school and school-related activities. The policy for such equipment must be adopted by the applicable school board, with appropriate notifications provided to students and parents or guardians, ensuring awareness of the recording practices in place.

Contention

While the bill has potential benefits regarding student safety, there may be debates surrounding privacy concerns and the implications of surveillance in school environments. Critics may argue that the introduction of such technology can lead to discomfort among students or fears of being constantly monitored. The requirement for school boards to formally adopt and disclose the policy can also open discussions about how comprehensively these policies are enforced and communicated within school communities. Overall, the balance between enhancing safety and maintaining a respectful environment for students is likely to be a focal point of contention within legislative discussions surrounding AB395.

Companion Bills

WI SB391

Crossfiled Equipment of school buses with audiovisual recording devices.

Previously Filed As

WI AB1071

A school bus camera grant program, a school bus safety camera surcharge, owner liability for illegally passing a school bus, and providing a penalty. (FE)

WI SB998

A school bus camera grant program, a school bus safety camera surcharge, owner liability for illegally passing a school bus, and providing a penalty. (FE)

WI AB870

Video recording of surgical procedures, providing an exemption from emergency rule procedures, granting rule-making authority, and providing a penalty. (FE)

WI AB167

Motor vehicle operators licenses restricting operators to the use of motor vehicles equipped with ignition interlock devices and providing a penalty. (FE)

WI AB369

Newborn infant safety devices under the safe haven law.

WI AB728

Teen dating violence prevention education. (FE)

WI SB150

Motor vehicle operators licenses restricting operators to the use of motor vehicles equipped with ignition interlock devices and providing a penalty. (FE)

WI AB1224

Release of audio and video footage following officer-involved deaths or other critical incidents involving a law enforcement officer. (FE)

WI SB369

Newborn infant safety devices under the safe haven law.

WI AB15

Pupil or minor access to harmful material in public libraries and to harmful material or offensive material in public schools. (FE)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.