HI HB2280

Requires school bus contracts between the State and contractors to mandate consideration of smaller vehicles that do not require commercial driver's licenses for routes with low ridership or specific geographical limitations as determined by the Department of Education.

Smaller vehicles used must meet all relevant safety standards and contractors must ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers.

Amends Section 302A-407, Hawaii Revised Statutes, to add these requirements to existing school bus contract provisions regarding vehicle equipment and safety standards.

Addresses the shortage of school bus drivers in Hawaii by allowing the use of passenger vans carrying fewer than 16 people, which do not require commercial driver's licenses, to alleviate transportation service suspensions at ten high schools on Oahu and four schools on Kauai.

Takes effect on July 1, 3000 (note: effective date appears to contain a typographical error).