Bill > HB1684

This bill establishes comprehensive safety standards for private passenger van services that transport students to and from public schools. The Texas Department of Public Safety, in consultation with an unnamed agency, is required to create safety standards for these van services and develop a mandatory two-hour annual training course on transportation safety. To operate legally, van service providers must be registered with the state, maintain commercial insurance, meet established safety standards, and ensure that all employees who transport students complete the annual safety training. School districts are mandated to provide parents with written notice about these services and may only release a student to a van service operator with a signed parental authorization letter that includes the student's name, the operator's contact information, and the operator's confirmation of compliance with safety requirements. The Department of Public Safety and the relevant agency will jointly develop rules defining "private passenger van service" and implementing these regulations. These safety provisions will take effect for the 2026-2027 school year, with the act becoming effective on September 1, 2025.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1684