S.828 - School Bus Safety Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The School Bus Safety Act of 2025 aims to enhance the safety of school buses by mandating the inclusion of new safety equipment and implementing updated safety standards. This includes requiring 3-point safety belts, automatic emergency braking systems, event data recorders, and fire suppression systems in school buses. The Act also calls for studies on motion-activated detection systems and safety belt alerts, and establishes a grant program to assist local educational agencies in purchasing and modifying school buses with these safety features.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely lead to increased safety for students riding school buses through the implementation of new safety technologies and standards. It will also require additional training for school bus operators and further research into potential safety enhancements. The grant program will incentivize the adoption of these safety measures by providing financial assistance to local educational agencies.
Potential Benefits
- Increased safety for students riding school buses due to mandatory safety equipment.
- Reduced injuries and fatalities in school bus-related accidents.
- Improved driver training and awareness through enhanced instruction requirements.
- Advancement in safety technology and research through mandated studies.
- Financial assistance to local educational agencies for implementing safety upgrades.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased costs for school districts to purchase and retrofit school buses with new safety equipment.
- Potential delays in school bus manufacturing and delivery due to new requirements.
- Possible resistance from some school districts due to financial constraints or logistical challenges.
- The Act's effectiveness depends on proper implementation and maintenance of the new safety systems.
- Potential for increased complexity in school bus operation and maintenance.
Constitutional Alignment
The School Bus Safety Act of 2025 primarily aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the U.S. Constitution, which empowers Congress to enact laws that promote the safety and well-being of the population, particularly children. The Act falls under Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce, as it pertains to the manufacturing and safety standards of vehicles used for transportation across state lines. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).