Bill > S00259

This bill establishes new criminal offenses related to school bus and school grounds safety, focusing on preventing unauthorized access and protecting students. Specifically, the bill creates two new criminal trespass offenses: criminal trespass on school grounds or children's camps (a class C felony) and two degrees of criminal trespass on a school bus (second degree as a class A misdemeanor and first degree as a class C felony). The second-degree school bus trespass offense includes actions like willfully damaging a bus, entering a bus without authorization, refusing to leave when instructed by a driver or school official, or impeding a bus's operation. The first-degree offense escalates the charge if the person possesses weapons, explosives, or ammunition during the trespass. Additionally, the bill requires the motor vehicles commissioner to create signage for school buses warning about unauthorized entry, and mandates that professional development training for school bus drivers now include techniques for managing violent incidents, intrusions, and active shooter situations. The new laws aim to enhance safety and provide legal mechanisms to prevent and prosecute unauthorized or disruptive behavior on school transportation and grounds.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S259