S. 3535-B Summary

• Requires all public transportation systems receiving state operating assistance to purchase only zero-emission buses by January 1, 2029, as part of normal fleet replacement.

• Defines zero-emission buses as vehicles with 15+ passenger capacity powered by electric motors drawing electricity from hydrogen fuel cells or rechargeable batteries, or operating without direct atmospheric emissions.

• Allows transportation authorities and municipalities to procure electric-powered buses through existing contracts with other public authorities, the state, or political subdivisions with a two-thirds board vote, with a 30-day notice period before awarding contracts.

• Requires transit agencies to create workforce development reports forecasting job impacts, identifying skill gaps, and providing comprehensive transition and retraining plans for employees affected by zero-emission bus purchases over a five-year period.

• Protects all existing employee rights, collective bargaining agreements, and prohibits displacement of workers or transfer of maintenance and operations duties to contractors as a result of zero-emission bus procurement.