New Legislation Eases Requirements for Type S School Bus Drivers in New Jersey
TRENTON, NJ — The Assembly Education Committee recently advanced Assembly Bill No. 2180, incorporating committee amendments that would allow Type S school bus certificate holders to operate buses without a commercial driver license and other endorsements, provided they meet specific requirements outlined in the bill. The legislation aims to streamline the process for school bus operation, ensuring drivers are still held to stringent legal standards.
On Monday, the bill passed with a unanimous 70-0 vote in the assembly. 10 assemblypersons abstained on the vote.
The bill stipulates severe penalties for violations, including criminal charges for those operating a Type S school bus with suspended or revoked driving privileges. Incidents resulting in bodily harm elevate the offense severity, with increased penalties for accidents involving bodily injury. Additionally, drivers found leaving a pupil unattended on a bus face certificate suspension or permanent revocation, depending on the offense and circumstances, such as harm caused by gross negligence.
Further provisions mandate a 90-day suspension of the Type S school bus certificate for drivers convicted of multiple motor vehicle violations or who accumulate excessive penalty points. The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission’s Chief Administrator plays a pivotal role in enforcing these suspensions and coordinating with educational authorities to ensure compliance. Drivers must undergo a defensive driving course and a 10-hour training to reinstate their certificates after suspension.
The bill also defines a “Type S school bus” as a vehicle used for transporting students to educational activities, distinguishing it by weight and seating capacity criteria. Initially filed for the 2024-2025 session and following a technical review, the bill includes necessary adjustments as per the review findings.