SB 2549 SD1

Requires the Department of Education to hire a new contractor or contractors with the Governor's approval if a contractor under a student transportation contract fails to provide service on a contracted route for five or more consecutive instructional days. Requires the DOE to assess a penalty if a contractor fails to provide service on a contracted route without an approved justification. Specifies that the assessed penalties be deposited into the School Bus Fare Revolving Fund. Beginning 7/1/2026, requires all requests for proposals issued and contracts executed by the DOE for student transportation services to specifically reference certain new provisions. Authorizes the use of the School Bus Fare Revolving Fund to offset costs associated with procuring replacement services. Requires quarterly reports to the Legislature. (SD1)