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Bill

S 3240

Relates to drivers of school buses using hands-free mobile telephones

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jeremy Cooney and 1 co-sponsor

Bill S 3240 allows school bus drivers to use hands-free mobile devices, enhancing communication while prioritizing safety for drivers and the students they transport.

COMMITTED TO RULES
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 3240

Summary of Bill S 3240: Hands-Free Mobile Telephone Use by School Bus Drivers

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: S 3240
  • Title: Relates to drivers of school buses using hands-free mobile telephones
  • Status: Committed to Rules
  • Introduced: January 24, 2025
  • Classification: Legislative Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill S 3240 is to enhance safety for school bus drivers and the children they transport by regulating the use of mobile telephones while driving. Specifically, the bill aims to permit school bus drivers to use hands-free mobile devices, thereby reducing distractions while ensuring communication capabilities.

Key Provisions

  • Hands-Free Use: The bill allows school bus drivers to use hands-free mobile telephones while operating their vehicles. This provision is intended to facilitate necessary communication without compromising safety.
  • Regulatory Framework: The bill may establish guidelines for what constitutes "hands-free" use, potentially including specifications for devices or technology that meet safety standards.
  • Enforcement Measures: The legislation may outline penalties or enforcement mechanisms for violations of the hands-free requirement, although specific details are not provided in the current text.

Impact

  • Affected Parties:
    • School Bus Drivers: The bill directly impacts school bus drivers by allowing them to use hands-free devices, which can improve their ability to communicate while maintaining focus on driving.
    • Students and Parents: Enhanced communication may lead to improved safety and responsiveness in emergencies, benefiting students and their families.
    • School Districts: Schools may need to adapt policies and training for drivers to comply with the new regulations.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 24, 2025: Bill S 3240 was introduced and referred to the Transportation Committee.
  • May 13, 2025: The bill was reported for the first time (1st Report Cal. 1070).
  • May 14, 2025: The bill advanced to the second report calendar (2nd Report Cal.).
  • May 15, 2025: The bill advanced to the third reading.
  • June 13, 2025: The bill was committed to the Rules Committee for further consideration.

Related Legislation

  • S 9559: This bill is related to a prior session's legislation, which may provide context or background on the ongoing discussions regarding mobile phone use by school bus drivers.

Conclusion

Bill S 3240 represents a significant step towards improving safety for school bus drivers and their passengers by allowing the use of hands-free mobile devices. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its provisions and potential impacts will be further clarified, ensuring that the safety of students remains a top priority.

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

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