HI HR45

Urges the Department of Education to convene a working group to address school bus transportation inequities affecting low- to moderate-income families statewide.

Directs the working group to consider paying shortage differentials to incentivize hiring more school bus drivers, particularly on neighbor islands and in rural areas.

Requires the working group to submit a report with findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2023 Regular Session convenes.

Identifies COVID-19 as having reduced the school bus driver workforce by 15 percent and suspended at least 30 statewide routes, widening the equity gap between low- and high-income families.

Notes that lack of transportation leads to tardiness, absenteeism, and learning loss, and disproportionately affects students reliant on school meals programs.