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Bill > H564


MA H564

MA H564
Relative to improved special needs transportation and student safety, "John's Law"


summary

Introduced
02/27/2025
In Committee
02/27/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

194th General Court

Bill Summary

Relative to transportation of special needs students. Education.

AI Summary

This bill introduces new safety requirements for transporting students with disabilities, commonly known as "John's Law." The legislation adds a new section to Massachusetts law defining "special transportation van" as a vehicle used primarily to transport children or individuals with disabilities. It mandates that all bus drivers, monitors, and qualified attendants who transport students with disabilities must be trained and certified in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Additionally, school districts are now required to provide a written report about each student with a disability being transported, which must detail any sensory, neurological, emotional, communication, physical, intellectual, or health impairments that could potentially impact the student's safety during transportation. These reports can only be shared if they are specifically required by the student's individualized education program (IEP) or if the student's parent or guardian provides written consent, ensuring both enhanced safety measures and protection of student privacy.

Committee Categories

Education

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Accompanied a new draft, see H4404 (on 08/25/2025)

bill text


bill summary

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bill summary

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bill summary

Document Type Source Location
State Bill Page https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H564
BillText https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H564.pdf
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