HF187

House File No. 187 is a legislative bill that mandates the installation of both lap and shoulder seat belts in all newly purchased school buses in Minnesota, starting from December 31, 2025. The bill states that these seat belts need to meet specific safety standards set by the commissioner, who will take into account the integration of these belts with existing safety systems on buses.

The bill also clarifies responsibilities and legal liabilities related to the use of these seat belts: 1. Passengers on buses equipped with seat belts are required to use them unless there is a written exemption from the passenger or, in the case of minors, their parents or guardians. 2. School districts or bus operators will not be legally responsible if a passenger is injured while not wearing a seat belt. However, they must maintain the seat belts in working order and comply with all relevant safety regulations. 3. There is no liability on the part of school districts, bus operators, or their employees for not helping passengers with using the seat belts.

The bill applies to all standard school buses and does not extend to specially equipped school buses. The goal of the bill is to enhance the safety of students during their commutes by implementing these safety measures in school transportation.