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House rejects bill letting parents pay for optional school busing amid equity concerns, 33‑35
Summary
HB237 would have allowed local boards to provide optional transportation for ineligible students if parents voluntarily pay the cost; debate centered on fee waivers and potential discrimination against low‑income students, and the measure failed 33‑35.
Representative Wadobs presented House Bill 237 to permit local school boards to provide optional transportation for students who are not eligible under current distance rules if parents voluntarily pay the cost. Floor amendments changed language to make fees 'voluntarily paid by' parents rather than 'collected from' them.
Opponents raised concerns the bill could discriminate against low‑income families because state law requires fee waivers when fees are charged. Critics also warned of operational issues — bus availability, driver workload, and the risk of slots being occupied by paying students — that could prevent eligible students from riding.
Supporters said the measure would provide additional safety options for parents willing to pay and would not add state costs if waivers are handled so that school districts do not bear extra burden. After debate and the call of the House, the House voted and the bill failed on the floor with 33 affirmative and 35 negative votes; the bill was filed.
