SB3985 Summary

• Schools and transportation providers must provide written or verbal instruction on seat belt availability and correct use to students and parents at least twice per calendar or school year.

• Bus drivers or aides must give a verbal or posted reminder to all passengers to fasten their seat belts properly before each trip begins.

• Beginning January 1, 2026, school buses equipped with seat safety belt systems must prioritize those seats for use, with passengers required to wear belts correctly.

• Schools and transportation providers are not liable for damages resulting from a passenger's failure to use or misuse seat belts, provided they have followed the instruction and reminder requirements.

• Operators transporting children in non-school bus vehicles must comply with the Child Passenger Protection Act's occupant restraint requirements.