News & Insights

Insurance requirements for school bus contractors differ from state to state. While some states have specific requirements for school buses, other states only have requirements if some other type of charter transportation is required. These state requirements may also vary depending on the type of vehicle used, such as a school bus or school van. School transportation contractors should be aware that, in certain instances, federal insurance requirements may also apply. Whether or not federal ins...

As we approach the end of the 2025-2026 school year, school bus contractors are already making plans for work that must be completed over the summer months in preparation for the start of the 2026-2027 school year. Often included in these preparations over the summer months is a review of the employee handbook and supplemental company policies and procedures. As school bus contractors take the time this summer to review and update their handbook, it is recommended not to overlook language regard...

As we approach the end of the school year, school bus operators are already planning work that must be done over the summer months. For most operators, the summer months are the best time of the year to review and revise employee handbooks, as well as other employer policies and procedures. One component that should not be overlooked during this review period is language regarding the company’s drug and alcohol policy (or policies).

As we approach the end of the school year, school bus operators are already planning work that must be done over the summer months. For most operators, the summer months are the best time of the year to review and revise employee handbooks, as well as other employer policies and procedures. One component that should not be overlooked during this review period is language regarding the company’s drug and alcohol policy (or policies).

School buses are by far the safest mode of transportation. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration as previously found that school buses are seventy times safety than passenger cars. Notwithstanding this excellent track record, accidents do happen. In the event of an accident with injuries, many school bus operators may wonder who is responsible for the medical bills of any injured passengers. This is addressed in the Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Financial Responsibility Law.

The Fair Labor Standards Act (“FLSA”) establishes the minimum wage, currently $7.25 per hour, and overtime requirements for employees working over forty (40) hours per week, at a rate of one and one half times the employee’s regular rate of pay. 29 U.S.C. §206, 207. But, employees employed in a bona fide executive, administrative, or professional capacity are exempt from these minimum wage and overtime requirements. 29 U.S.C. §213(a). The United States Department of Labor (“USDOL”) regulati...

​School bus drivers know that nearly every school bus is equipped with audio/video recording equipment. Drivers also know that most students travel with a cell phone that has audio/video recording capability. As a result, drivers often have to deal with students making their own audio/video recordings on the school bus when incidents or accidents occur. How should a driver respond when students are recording a school bus incident, or when students are recording the driver disciplining students?...