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Senate approves expansion to 10‑passenger school vans and adopts safety checks
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Summary
SB46 passed unanimously on Jan. 22, 2026; the committee substitute added that drivers of school vans must undergo background checks and drug testing, and the change extends prior authorization from nine‑ to ten‑passenger vans so districts can use existing vehicles.
FRANKFORT, Ky. — The Senate on Jan. 22 adopted a committee substitute and passed SB46, a bill that extends the prior authorization for school districts to use nine‑passenger vans to 10‑passenger vans and incorporates additional safety measures.
Senator from Harden explained the committee substitute adds requirements intended to protect children and district transportation operations, including ensuring van drivers have required background checks and participate in drug testing in addition to existing background‑check requirements.
Sponsor rationale: Harden described the measure as a "cleanup bill" to align statute with the vehicles districts purchased after last session. He said allowing ten‑passenger vans will help districts save money and provide flexible transportation for small student groups traveling to extracurricular events.
Vote and procedure: The Senate adopted Committee Substitute 1 by voice vote and then voted on the amended bill. The clerk recorded 37 yeas and 0 nays; SB46 as amended passed.
Technical note: Chamber leadership indicated the committee substitute did not display correctly on the chamber board title area; they said they would correct the display but that no revote would be required.
SB46 now moves to the House for consideration of the Senate amendments.
