HB 557 Summary

• Establishes annual inspection requirements for wheelchair lifts on pupil transportation vehicles, separate from state highway patrol school bus inspections.

• Requires wheelchair lift inspections to be performed by persons certified by the original wheelchair lift manufacturer, or through alternative certification guidelines if the manufacturer is unavailable.

• Prohibits operation of pupil transportation vehicles equipped with wheelchair lifts unless the lift has passed required inspection and a compliance certificate is presented during school bus inspection.

• Authorizes the Department of Public Safety to adopt and enforce rules related to wheelchair lift inspection standards, inspector certification, and inspection forms.

• Allows only certified inspectors to perform repairs on wheelchair lifts, though non-certified persons may perform routine maintenance.