NC H355

Adds methods to prove a vehicle is a school bus by providing prima facie evidence including certified Division registration records and testimony from bus drivers, passengers, or investigating law enforcement officers.

Removes the requirement that school buses must bear a plainly visible "school bus" sign to qualify for protection under G.S. 20-217.

Requires local school administrative units to provide annual school bus safety instruction to all elementary school students, with curriculum developed by the State Board of Education.

Directs the Department of Public Instruction to study safety improvements for children boarding and exiting school buses, including feasibility of extending mechanical stop signals or adding protective barriers, with findings due to the Joint Legislative Education Oversight Committee by January 15, 2016.

Section 1 becomes effective October 1, 2015; remaining provisions effective upon enactment with bus safety instruction beginning in the 2015-2016 school year.