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HSB 107

A bill for an act relating to approved courses of instruction for school bus drivers.

2025-2026 Regular Session

HF 395 mandates Iowa school bus drivers complete approved training within six months of hiring and every 24 months, enhancing safety and compliance with federal standards.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 395.
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Bill Summary · HSB 107

Summary of HSB 107 (Renumbered as HF 395)

Purpose and Intent

HSB 107, now known as HF 395, is a legislative proposal aimed at enhancing the training requirements for school bus drivers in Iowa. The bill seeks to ensure that all individuals employed as school bus drivers complete an approved course of instruction, thereby improving safety and compliance with federal regulations.

Key Provisions

  • Course Completion Requirement:

    • All school bus drivers must successfully complete a course of instruction approved by the Iowa Department of Education (DOE).
    • This course must be completed either before or within the first six months of employment and must be repeated at least every 24 months thereafter.

  • Recognition of Federal Training:

    • The bill allows the DOE to accept proof of completion of Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) as sufficient for the approved course of instruction, provided that the ELDT includes both passenger endorsement and school bus endorsement training curricula.

  • Regulatory Compliance:

    • The bill does not alter the existing requirement for school bus drivers to complete a DOE-approved course every 24 months.
    • It makes necessary organizational changes to Iowa Code section 321.276(3) to align with these provisions.

Affected Parties

  • School Bus Drivers: The primary group affected by this bill are individuals employed as school bus drivers, who will need to ensure they meet the new training requirements.
  • School Districts: School districts will be responsible for ensuring their drivers are compliant with the training requirements set forth in the bill.
  • Department of Education: The DOE will play a crucial role in establishing the rules and requirements for the approved courses and recognizing ELDT completion.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: January 30, 2025
  • Subcommittee Meeting: February 3, 2025
  • Subcommittee Recommendation: February 6, 2025
  • Committee Vote: February 11, 2025 (Passed with 23 Yeas, 0 Nays)
  • Committee Report: February 13, 2025 (Bill approved and renumbered as HF 395)

Conclusion

HSB 107 (HF 395) represents a significant step towards ensuring that school bus drivers in Iowa receive the necessary training to operate safely and effectively. By recognizing federal training programs, the bill aims to streamline the certification process while maintaining rigorous safety standards for school transportation.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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