Bill > HB288

This bill addresses a significant school bus driver shortage in Hawaii by providing the Department of Education (DOE) with more flexibility in student transportation. The bill authorizes the DOE to implement a staggered school hours program to maximize available bus services and allows the use of alternative vehicles like motorcoaches, small buses, and vans for student transportation, provided certain safety conditions are met. These conditions include obtaining parental liability waivers, ensuring adult staff chaperones escort students, and meeting state and federal transportation regulations. The legislation also modifies driver licensing requirements to accommodate these alternative vehicles and appropriates funds for purchasing additional transportation vehicles and incentivizing individuals to obtain commercial driver's licenses (CDLs). The bill was prompted by an emergency situation where 108 bus routes were suspended, affecting approximately 3,720 students, and seeks to codify temporary emergency measures that were initially implemented through a governor's proclamation. By expanding transportation options and addressing driver shortages, the bill aims to ensure continued access to school transportation services for students across Hawaii.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=288&year=2026