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District reports cost estimate to meet Texas law requiring 3‑point belts on school buses
Summary
Rockwall ISD presented Senate Bill 546 requirements and a district estimate: 42 buses with no belts, 8 with two‑point belts, 102 with three‑point belts; estimated cost to equip remaining buses is $1,438,013.47. Administration outlined potential funding options including grants, fleet refresh, or one‑time capital outlay.
Mr. Carter of the district's finance/operations team briefed trustees on Senate Bill 546, enacted by the 89th Texas Legislature (2025), which requires three‑point lap‑and‑shoulder belts on all Texas school buses by the 2029–2030 school year. "All school districts are required to be in compliance with this new law by the 2029–2030 school year," he said, and explained the two public‑meeting steps districts must complete under the statute.
Carter reported the district fleet breakdown and an estimated cost to retrofit remaining buses: 42 buses without seat belts, 8 buses with two‑point systems, and 102 buses already equipped with three‑point belts; he estimated the cost to equip the remaining buses at $1,438,013.47 and noted the district will pursue grant opportunities, continue normal vehicle replacement, and consider a one‑time capital outlay if necessary. The item was informational and no funding decision was made at the meeting.
