HI SB1198

Designates student transportation as critical infrastructure and a critical service for Hawaii's public education system, changing the Department of Education's authority from "may" to "shall" provide transportation for K-12 and special education students

Requires school bus contracts to include annual contingency plans addressing potential driver shortages, fleet capacity issues, and other operational risks

Mandates performance metrics for driver availability and fleet capacity be reviewed and certified by the department at least 30 days before each school year begins

Establishes emergency communication protocols requiring contractors to notify the department of anticipated service disruptions 30 days before school starts, with weekly progress updates, and families must be notified of changes within 5 business days

Requires annual audits and reports on contractor performance submitted to the legislature at least 20 days before each regular session, with penalties including payment withholding and contract termination for noncompliance