Bill > SB696

This bill updates Oklahoma's statutory language regarding school transportation vehicles by removing the requirement that vehicles with a capacity of ten or more passengers have "SCHOOL BUS" painted in large letters on the front and rear of the vehicle. Currently, the law mandates that such vehicles must have these words painted in letters at least eight inches tall, but the proposed bill eliminates this specific signage requirement. The bill will become effective on July 1, 2025, and contains an emergency clause, which means it can take effect immediately upon passage and approval. The underlying purpose appears to be simplifying regulatory requirements for school districts and transportation contractors while maintaining the essential provisions about school transportation. The bill continues to allow school districts to purchase their own transportation vehicles or contract with individuals or other districts to provide transportation, subject to existing statutory provisions related to transporting school children.