NY A05168

Extends the deadline for school districts to purchase only zero-emission school buses from July 1, 2035 to July 1, 2047, or until all state agencies have fully transitioned their medium- and heavy-duty vehicle fleets to zero-emission vehicles, whichever is later

Removes the earlier July 1, 2027 requirement that school districts only purchase or lease zero-emission buses, replacing it with the extended 2047 deadline

Requires the Commissioner of Education to complete a cost-benefit analysis for each school district considering infrastructure upgrades, charging/fueling installation, facility renovations, procurement costs, and fire suppression systems before mandating compliance

Allows the commissioner to grant 24-month extensions to districts unable to comply based on the cost-benefit analysis, and permits exemptions when zero-emission buses are not feasible as determined in consultation with NYISO, utilities, and the Department of Public Service

Directs NYSERDA to consult with the Office of Fire Prevention and Control to develop appropriate fire suppression and safety procedures for lithium and hydrogen-based fires related to zero-emission school buses