Bill > SB498

This bill requires significant changes to school bus safety in Maryland, focusing on two primary areas: education and vehicle equipment. First, the bill mandates that public school safety education programs must now include specific instruction on school bus safety and proper seat belt usage. Second, starting July 1, 2027, all new school buses registered in the state must be equipped with 3-point seat belts (which include a lap belt and shoulder strap) for every passenger seat. The bill also includes an important legal provision that prevents civil lawsuits against school bus operators or schools if a student fails to wear a seat belt, effectively removing potential liability for seat belt non-use. The legislation defines a school bus as a Type I school vehicle, which is a large vehicle (over 15,000 pounds) designed to carry passengers with at least 13 inches of seating space per passenger. By implementing these changes, the bill aims to enhance student safety during school transportation by promoting education about bus safety and ensuring that new school buses have comprehensive seat belt systems, while also providing legal protection for bus operators and schools.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0498?ys=2025RS