Purpose

The purpose of this bill is to create a work group focused on developing safe placements for school bus stops across Minnesota. This group will evaluate existing conditions and propose changes to improve safety at these locations.

Main Provisions

• Work Group Establishment: By August 1, 2025, a safe school bus site development work group must be formed by the commissioner of transportation.
• Group Membership: The group will include members from the Minnesota legislature, transportation and education departments, law enforcement, school transportation associations, disability councils, and other relevant stakeholders.
• Duties: The work group will review and analyze current policies, design factors, and safety criteria related to school bus stops. It will also collect data on transportation-related incidents and gather community feedback.
• Public Involvement: The work will include public awareness initiatives and training for safe bus stop practices. There will be opportunities for public comments and feedback.
• Reporting: An interim report is due by March 1, 2027, and a final report by May 1, 2027, with recommendations for legislative changes.
• Funding and Expiration: The group is funded through a one-time appropriation available until June 30, 2027, after which the work group will expire.

Significant Changes

• The bill requires collaboration with various stakeholders to develop standardized criteria for the safe placement and design of school bus stops, aligning with traffic laws and pedestrian safety considerations.
• This initiative aims to create comprehensive guidelines that address both urban and rural transportation needs, including those for students with disabilities.

Relevant Terms

school bus stop safety, risk assessment, traffic flow, pedestrian accessibility, community engagement, training, public awareness, safe routes, transportation incidents, disability accommodations.