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A bill that would require school boards to adopt a transportation policy and students to sign the policy passed the House Education Committee on Tuesday.
Rep. Emily Callaway, R-Louisville, explained that House Bill 446 is designed to “make sure that our bus drivers are heard, protected and respected and that our children are transported in a safe environment.”
The bill comes as the state has faced a bus driver shortage for several years. Part of the reason for the shortage is student behavior, Callaway said.
The bill directs the Kentucky Department of Education to create a policy that local boards would then adopt. Starting in the 2024-25 school year, parents and students would have to sign policy within the first seven days of school.
“This policy also addresses parent and guardian behavior, emphasizing that they will be liable if they become aggressive or create an unsafe environment for the drivers or the riders,” Callaway said.
If parents or students violate the policy, districts would be allowed to restrict transportation services.
Rep. Tina Bojanowski, D-Louisville, a special education teacher, asked whether a parent could sign for a young student, such as a kindergartener. Callaway said having the student write their name would be a good way to practice writing their name.
The bill passed the committee with 15 yes votes, three pass votes and zero no votes. The bill will now go the full House.
Photo: Louisville Republicans Rep. Emily Callaway and Rep. Kevin Bratcher present HB 446 to the House Education Committee on Tuesday.
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