Montana legislature mandates lap-shoulder belts for new school buses starting 2026

The Montana Legislature convened on April 1, 2025, to introduce House Bill 512, a significant piece of legislation aimed at enhancing safety standards for school transportation. The bill mandates that all new school buses purchased after January 1, 2026, must be equipped with lap-shoulder belts for each passenger, aligning with standards set by the Board of Public Education.

Key provisions of House Bill 512 include the requirement for school districts to adopt a publicly available policy enforcing the use of these safety belts. Additionally, the bill stipulates that all lap-shoulder belts must be maintained in good working order. Notably, it includes a provision that protects individuals from penalties if another passenger fails to use their belt, provided the school has implemented the required usage policy.

The bill also addresses governmental liability by limiting it in cases related to the enforcement of the lap-shoulder belt policy. Furthermore, it revises existing definitions and modifies bid letting requirements for school transportation contracts to incorporate the new safety measures. To incentivize compliance, the legislation proposes a decrease in registration fees for buses equipped with lap-shoulder belts.

Debate surrounding House Bill 512 has highlighted concerns about the financial implications for school districts, particularly regarding the costs associated with purchasing new buses and implementing the required safety measures. Proponents argue that the legislation is a necessary step to enhance student safety during transportation, while opponents caution about the potential financial burden on local governments.

Experts in child safety and transportation have weighed in, emphasizing the importance of seat belts in reducing injuries during accidents. They suggest that the bill could lead to a significant decrease in injuries among school-aged children, thereby justifying the initial costs.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications could reshape school transportation safety standards in Montana, potentially setting a precedent for other states to follow. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential amendments as lawmakers consider the balance between safety and financial feasibility for school districts.