NJ S1180

Creates a 22-member Special Education Transportation Task Force in New Jersey to study and recommend best practices for transporting students receiving special education services, including responses to medical and behavioral emergencies.

Task force members include the Commissioner of Education, Director of the Office of Special Education, Special Education Ombudsman, disability ombudsman, and 18 public members appointed by the Governor representing education associations, disability advocacy groups, healthcare professionals, and parents.

Directs the task force to review training policies for school bus staff, certification requirements for drivers and aides, and how transportation should be addressed in Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

Requires review of best practices from other states and identification of concerns related to safety, equipment access, parent communication, and staffing needs.

Task force must issue recommendations to the Governor and Legislature within 12 months of organizing, after which the task force expires.