Bill > H2574

This bill requires all school buses transporting students to public, charter, vocational, private, and parochial schools to be equipped with lap-shoulder seat belts for each permanent seat by September 1, 2027. The seat belts must be designed and installed in compliance with U.S. Department of Transportation (D.O.T.) safety standards, and students must wear these belts at all times during vehicle operation. The bill also mandates that driver training programs include instruction on lap-shoulder belt usage, and passengers must wear the belts properly according to manufacturer instructions. Additionally, the bill directs the insurance commissioner to develop a premium reduction schedule for school buses with approved lap-shoulder belt systems, recognizing the decreased injury risk associated with these safety features. This legislation aims to enhance student safety during school transportation by ensuring uniform seat belt requirements across different types of schools and providing incentives for early adoption of improved safety technology.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2574