Bill > S2861

This bill establishes a special commission to comprehensively examine and recommend updates to school bus safety standards in Massachusetts. The commission will be composed of 11 members, including representatives from the state senate and house of representatives, state education and public health departments, and various educational and transportation associations. The commission's mandate is to assess and propose improvements to existing school bus safety regulations, potentially including the implementation of safety sensors, additional bus monitors, enhanced operator training, and other operational standards designed to protect students during transportation. Specifically, the commission will evaluate current licensing and training requirements for school bus operators and explore potential safety enhancements for students while on buses, during boarding and disembarking, and while waiting at bus stops. The commission is required to submit its findings, recommendations, and draft legislation to key legislative bodies by December 1, 2026. The bill is to be known as "Summers Law" and represents a proactive approach to improving student transportation safety through a comprehensive, multi-stakeholder review process.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2861