TRENTON, NJ – Governor Murphy has signed new legislation in an effort to address the shortage of school bus drivers. The legislation, supported by Senators James Beach and Vincent Polistina, allows boards of education, nonpublic school governing bodies, and state agencies to designate certain personnel to transport students to and from school.
Eligibility criteria for potential designated drivers include being at least 21 years old, having held a valid basic driver’s license for a minimum of three years, and completing training on procedures for interacting with students with special needs. Additional requirements must be fulfilled as set out by the new law.
Senator Beach highlighted the importance of the bill, noting the significant inconvenience the driver shortage causes for families and school administrators. He emphasized that the legislation will create opportunities for individuals with standard driver’s licenses to become designated drivers, thus increasing the available pool of drivers for school districts.
Furthermore, designated drivers are required to submit a driving record covering the past five years, showing no alcohol or drug-related violations. They must also undergo a criminal history background check by the New Jersey Department of Education and a Child Abuse Record Information check.