TRENTON, N.J. — The Senate Transportation Committee has favorably reported an amended version of Senate Bill No. 3000, which would allow drivers with a Type S school bus certificate to operate certain school buses without needing a commercial driver license or additional endorsements typically required for larger school buses.
Under the bill, a Type S school bus is defined as a vehicle with a gross weight of 3,000 pounds or more, designed to seat no more than nine passengers, excluding the driver. These vehicles are used to transport children to and from schools and school-related activities.
To be eligible for a Type S school bus certificate, drivers must meet specific requirements outlined in the bill. They will still be subject to certain legal provisions applicable to school bus drivers, ensuring safety measures remain in place.
The bill imposes penalties for drivers who violate safety standards. Operating a Type S school bus while driving privileges are suspended or revoked will be considered a fourth-degree crime, and a third-degree crime if an accident involving bodily injury occurs. Additionally, drivers who leave a student on the bus at the end of a route will face a six-month suspension for a first offense and permanent revocation for a second offense, with stricter penalties if gross negligence leads to harm.
The legislation also mandates that drivers who accumulate six or more penalty points or commit three or more moving violations within three years face a 90-day suspension of their Type S school bus certificate. Suspended drivers must complete a defensive driving course or a 10-hour training program approved by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission to have their certificate reinstated.
The bill aims to streamline the process for obtaining a Type S school bus certificate while maintaining stringent safety protocols. It will take effect after receiving final approval from the Legislature and Governor’s office.
