OH HB615

School bus owners may install protective barriers around or near the operator's seat to protect drivers from infectious diseases, subject to state rules.

The Director of Public Safety, in consultation with the superintendent of public instruction, shall adopt and enforce rules regarding the construction, design, and installation of protective barriers.

State highway patrol may inspect installed barriers during routine equipment inspections to ensure compliance with adopted rules.

The Director of Public Safety must adopt emergency rules within thirty days of the effective date, followed by permanent rules under Chapter 119 of the Revised Code.

The act is declared an emergency measure to take immediate effect, citing the need to protect public health during COVID-19 and future infectious disease outbreaks.