The New Jersey Senate has passed a bill introduced by Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco aimed at enhancing the safety of transportation for students with disabilities. The legislation mandates several measures, including requiring school bus personnel to call 911 in potential life-threatening situations and providing training related to school bus safety and interactions with students with disabilities.
The bill also stipulates that any school bus transporting one or more students with special transportation needs must be equipped with video cameras, communications equipment, and a global positioning system (GPS).
Senator Bucco emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “Ensuring the safety and well-being of our students, especially the most vulnerable, is of utmost importance. This legislation is a critical step in making sure that school bus personnel are properly equipped to respond swiftly in life-threatening situations and providing our students and their families with the peace of mind that help will be on the way when it’s needed most.”
Anabela Rossi, mother of Matthew Rossi, expressed her support for the bill: “Our son, Matthew, was the epitome of courage and perseverance. His example is our inspiration for the efforts on this bill… We believe this legislation will benefit the lives of special education students for generations to come.”
During a committee hearing, Senator Bucco thanked families who shared their experiences leading to this legislative action. He underscored its significance as part of his testimony.
