Bill > HB1539

This bill establishes the Electric School Bus Grant Program within the Pennsylvania Department of Education to help school entities and transportation providers transition to electric school buses. The program will award competitive grants to cover costs like purchasing electric buses, converting existing buses, installing charging infrastructure, and providing staff training. Eligible applicants include school districts, intermediate units, career and technical schools, and transportation service providers. The department will prioritize grants for applicants in areas with poor air quality, schools receiving poverty or sparsity adjustments, and those replacing a significant portion of their diesel or gas-powered buses. Grants can cover up to 100% of the cost difference between traditional and electric buses, with additional consideration for accessibility features like wheelchair lifts. The program will be funded through federal money, gifts, donations, and legislative appropriations, with a dedicated fund established in the State Treasury. The department will provide technical assistance to applicants, create a streamlined application process, and issue biennial reports to legislative committees tracking the program's progress. The grant program aims to support the transition to cleaner, more environmentally friendly school transportation while helping schools manage the potentially higher upfront costs of electric buses.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Education

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1539