NY A11330

Requires all school buses manufactured in New York on or after July 1, 2019 to be equipped with combination lap and shoulder harness safety belts on all passenger seats, with specifications approved by the Commissioner of Transportation.

Mandates retrofitting of existing school buses with combination lap and shoulder harness safety belts when scheduled for retrofitting, except buses manufactured before April 1, 2019, which the Commissioner cannot authorize for retrofit.

Requires all students to use safety belts while being transported on school buses, with alternative accommodations for students with special needs unable to use standard safety belts.

Establishes that school bus operators cannot operate equipped buses unless reasonably sure all passengers are restrained by safety belts, with exemptions for bus attendants and supervisory personnel.

Takes effect July 1, 2019, with authority for the Commissioner of Transportation to adopt necessary rules and regulations prior to the effective date.