MassachusettsSchool buses would need sensors for objects ahead or behind
Starting 360 days after the state issues rules, each school bus would need a sensor to detect objects in front or behind it.
What it does
Each school bus would need a sensor to detect objects in front or behind it, following state rules. The requirement would start 360 days after the rules are issued.
School districts could seek grants to install the required sensors on owned or leased buses or cover contractor charges tied to the upgrades. Funding would depend on lawmakers setting aside money.
Argument forSensors could help schools detect objects around buses, which may reduce the risk of a collision.
Argument againstBecause grants depend on lawmakers setting aside money, districts may still face sensor costs or higher contractor charges.
More detail
Each school bus would have to be equipped with an object-detecting sensor. The sensor must determine whether objects are in front of or behind the bus. The sensor's design and installation must follow rules issued by the Department of Public Utilities transportation oversight division. The division would have 180 days after the act takes effect to issue the rules; the bus requirement would begin 360 days after the rules are issued.
The transportation division would run a school bus safety technology grant program. School districts could seek money for sensors on district-operated buses, whether owned or leased, or for added contractor charges caused by the required upgrades. Program funding would depend on lawmakers setting aside money for implementation and evaluation. For every year the program operates, the division would have to send lawmakers an evaluation report by December 31.
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Where it stands
- Introduced
- Passed 1st Chamber
- Passed 2nd Chamber
- To Governor
- Became Law
Looking ahead
No hearings or votes scheduled.
History
- 2026
- Oct 8Senate concurredLatest
- Apr 23Reported, referred to the committee on Joint Rules, reported, rules suspended and referred to the committee on TransportationMinor
- Mar 30Referred to the committee on House RulesIntroduced
EducationTransportationPublic Safety