MN HF196

School buses purchased after December 31, 2019, must be equipped with approved lap and shoulder belts for each passenger seating position.

Existing school buses may be equipped with either lap belts or lap and shoulder belts at the discretion of the school district.

The commissioner of transportation shall establish design and installation standards for seat belts that are not subject to the rulemaking requirements of chapter 14.

Passengers must use seat belts unless the passenger or their parent/guardian provides written notification to the school district declining to wear them.

School districts and bus operators are protected from liability for injuries sustained by passengers not wearing seat belts, but remain liable for failure to maintain equipment or comply with applicable laws and policies.