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Primary Sponsor

Last Action

Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate2025-03-26

Vote Breakdown

No floor votes recorded.

Plain Language Summary

This bill requires all new school buses purchased starting in the 2026-2027 school year to be electric, with all school buses converted to electric by the end of the 2049-2050 school year. It also establishes a grant program to help small counties purchase electric activity buses, and appropriates $350 million for electric school bus purchases and $50 million for the grant program.

Arguments in Favor

• •Supporters argue this bill reduces air pollution and improves public health by eliminating diesel emissions that children breathe daily on buses and in communities near schools.
• •They contend that the long-term fuel and maintenance savings of electric buses will eventually offset higher upfront costs, and that setting a clear deadline encourages the electric bus industry to grow, making buses more affordable over time.

Arguments Against

• •Opponents worry about the substantial upfront costs of electric buses and charging infrastructure, which may strain school budgets even with state funding.
• •They raise concerns about whether the $350 million appropriation is sufficient given potential cost increases, whether charging infrastructure is available statewide, whether rural areas can support electric buses, and whether the 25-year timeline is realistic for complete fleet conversion.