HI HR171

Urges the Department of Education to develop a comprehensive plan for reinstating cancelled school bus service routes across Hawaii.

Notes that due to a nationwide shortage of school bus drivers, bus transportation services have been suspended at ten Oahu high schools and four schools on Kauai in the 2023-2024 school year.

Emphasizes that school bus services are essential for approximately 12,000 student riders on Oahu and 13,000 on the neighbor islands, particularly those in rural, remote, and socioeconomically disadvantaged communities.

Requests that the Department of Education submit the comprehensive plan, including findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation, to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2025 Regular Session convenes.

Directs transmission of certified copies to the Chairperson of the Board of Education and the Superintendent of Education.