NJ S1746

School bus drivers in New Jersey would be required to undergo mental health evaluations performed by a State-licensed mental health professional before employment and upon each license renewal.

The mental health evaluation must include an assessment of "moral fitness" and whether the individual exhibits "deviant social behavior," with criteria to be determined by the Chief Administrator of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission.

The requirement applies to all drivers transporting students for public school boards of education, private schools, and parochial schools.

This adds to existing requirements that school bus drivers already undergo medical exams for alcohol and controlled substances, as well as hearing and visual acuity tests.

The bill amends P.L.1975, c.284 (C.39:3-10.1a) and would take effect immediately upon enactment.