HI SCR72

Urges the Department of Education to develop a comprehensive plan for reinstating cancelled school bus service routes affected by the statewide shortage of qualified school bus drivers.

Notes that 10 Oahu high schools and 4 Kauai schools suspended bus transportation services during the 2023-2024 school year due to driver shortages.

Recognizes that approximately 12,000 student riders depend on bus services on Oahu and 13,000 on the neighbor islands, with particular impact on rural, remote, and socioeconomically disadvantaged communities.

Requires the Department of Education to submit the comprehensive plan, including findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation, to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2025 Regular Session convenes.

Directs that certified copies be sent to the Chairperson of the Board of Education and the Superintendent of Education.