House Ed Policy Subcommittee Acts on Alternative Transportation and Water Safety Bills
The House Education Policy Subcommittee approved two bills, both of which now move to the full House Education Committee for consideration.
HB 51, sponsored by Rep. Clay Pirkle (R-Ashburn), allows school districts to transport students in vehicles other than school buses. Currently this transportation option is open only to students experiencing homelessness and special education students. Pirkle described the legislation as providing school districts with added flexibility to transport students to school and school-related activities. The State Board of Education would be responsible for setting the minimum standards for vehicles and drivers.
HB 402,by Rep. Scott Hilton (R-Peachtree Corners), requires school districts to provide parents or guardians with information on the importance of water safety education courses and swimming lessons annually, beginning in the 2023-2024 school year electronically or by printed copy. Students who are 18 years or older will be provided the information directly. A representative of Every Child a Swimmer assisted Hilton in presenting the bill.
Schools will not be expected to provide swim lessons directly. HB 402 was amended by the subcommittee to provide for the inclusion of information about available swim instruction within school districts. PAGE will report on the specifics of this amendment when the amendment becomes available.
Upcoming Schedule
Thursday, Feb. 23 – Legislative Day 23
· House Education Committee, 8:30 a.m., 506 CLOB
· House Motor Vehicles Committee, 9 a.m., 606 CLOB
Monday, Feb. 27 – Legislative Day 24
Tuesday, Feb. 28 – Legislative Day 25
· Senate Retirement Committee, 1 p.m., 450 CAP
· Senate Education & Youth Committee, 2:30 p.m., 450 CAP
Wednesday, March 1 – Legislative Day 26
Senate Education & Youth Committee, 10 a.m., 307 CLOB