Bill > H353

This bill amends existing law regarding school transportation by allowing school committees to consider factors like attendance zones, zip codes, or other geographic subdivisions when determining eligibility for transportation, though this does not affect the obligation of regional school districts to provide transportation for all students in kindergarten through twelfth grade. It also clarifies that school committees are not required to provide transportation on private roads and permits them to charge fees for transportation that is not otherwise mandated, with exceptions for students eligible for free or reduced lunch under the federal school lunch program and potential exemptions for other income levels. The bill also reiterates the school committee's general responsibility for maintaining schoolhouses and ensuring necessary resources for students' comfort, and requires a school committee representative to be involved in the planning and construction of new schoolhouses.