Transit providers would install barriers on large buses by 2029

Providers would have to equip covered buses with protective barriers. This would apply to large buses weighing at least 26,001 pounds and measuring at least 30 feet, operated by providers serving routes in at least one municipality with more than 20,000 people. Barriers must protect the operator’s workstation, preserve the operator’s view outside the bus, and allow communication with passengers. The requirement and the ban on operating a covered bus without a barrier would begin August 1, 2029.

Providers would have to seek and use input from a labor organization representing their bus operators when buying barriers or other materials paid for by the fund. This would apply to urban fixed-route transit providers buying barriers or other materials funded by the Public Transit Bus Operator Safety Fund. If the provider is part of a joint labor-management safety committee, it must seek input through that committee.

The state would transfer $1 million to the Public Transit Bus Operator Safety Fund for grants to buy and install barriers. Grants would go to urban fixed-route transit providers for barriers on large heavy-duty buses in service. The fund could pay only for buying and installing barriers on large buses in service, not for repairs or maintenance. Grant spending would depend on money being available in the fund. The transfer would occur on or before June 30, 2027. Any money left in the fund after August 1, 2029, would lapse or go to the General Fund.

Providers would have to report their progress toward meeting the barrier requirements. This would apply to urban fixed-route transit providers and their progress toward installing barriers. The Department of Transportation would have to make each report public within 30 days of receiving it. Reports would be due by August 1 in 2027, 2028, and 2029. The department would publish each report within 30 days.