ENHANCED REAR LIGHTS FOR SCHOOL BUSES

House Bill 4046 as introduced

Sponsor:  Rep. Holly Hughes

Committee:  Transportation and Infrastructure

Complete to 2-8-16

SUMMARY:

The bill would amend the Pupil Transportation Act by adding Section 12, which would require school buses to be equipped with enhanced rear lighting at the top and bottom of the rear of the bus designed to reduce the number of injuries and fatalities resulting from the collision of motor vehicles with the rear ends of school buses.  The section would apply to school buses manufactured after the effective date of the bill.  This section could be referred to as the "Privacky Law."

MCL 257.1801 et al

FISCAL IMPACT:

The bill would have no fiscal impact on the state, but would create increased local costs to school districts and intermediate districts.  According to the Michigan Association for Pupil Transportation (MAPT), the costs for enhanced lighting devices could range from $300 to $500 per bus, depending on the quantity purchased.  MAPT estimates that public and private school transportation providers purchase approximately 1,000 new school buses annually, meaning the statewide cost could range from $300,000 to $500,000 annually.  The replacement cycle for a school bus is about 12 to 15 years. 

                                                                                        Legislative Analyst:   E. Best

                                                                                                Fiscal Analyst:   Bethany Wicksall

                                                                                                                           Samuel Christensen

■ This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House Fiscal Agency staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.