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HB 824

School bus drivers; require to be trained and certified in first aid and CPR.

2026 Regular Session

Mississippi bill mandates school bus drivers obtain first aid and CPR certification to improve emergency response capacity during student transportation.

Referred To Education
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 824

Legislative bill overview

HB 824 would mandate that all school bus drivers in Mississippi complete training and obtain certification in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The bill establishes a requirement that currently appears to be voluntary or unenforced in the state, making it a condition for employment or continued employment as a school bus driver.

Why is this important

School bus drivers are responsible for the safety and well-being of dozens of children during daily transportation. In emergencies—whether medical events, accidents, or other incidents—having drivers trained in first aid and CPR could mean the difference between life and death before emergency responders arrive. This addresses a potential safety gap in Mississippi schools.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: School districts would bear expenses for initial training, recertification (typically every 2 years for CPR/First Aid), and potential wage increases to attract/retain drivers meeting higher qualifications
  • Workforce retention: Existing drivers may resist new certification requirements, and stricter standards could worsen the national school bus driver shortage
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill doesn't clarify whether current drivers get a grace period, what happens to those who fail certification, or how costs are allocated between districts and the state

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

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