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Board says current budget won’t cover three‑point seat‑belt buses required by SB 546
Summary
After a staff overview of Senate Bill 546 requirements, trustees voted 7–0 to determine the district budget does not allow purchase of new buses with three‑point seat belts and reviewed district seat‑belt data.
San Elizario ISD trustees on April 8 voted unanimously to determine the district's current budget cannot support buying new buses equipped with three‑point seat belts required under Senate Bill 546.
Ms. Elizabeth Perez and Mr. Jesus Martinez presented the SB 546 overview and the district’s seat‑belt data. Following a discussion of costs and compliance obligations, Trustee Myrna Hernandez moved—and Trustee Lorenzo Luevano seconded—a motion stating "the current district budget does not allow for purchase of new buses with three‑point seatbelts." The motion passed 7–0.
The board did not direct immediate purchases or a financing plan; instead, trustees recorded the budget determination and will maintain SB 546 reporting as required. The presentation did not specify the dollar amount needed to retrofit or replace buses, and staff said figures would depend on procurement quotes.
The board’s decision affects how the district will report compliance under SB 546 and may require staff to explore alternative funding or phased approaches before acquiring compliant buses.
