State To Ensure Students Aren't Left On Bus

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(STATEHOUSE) - The state may step in to try to make sure Hoosier students aren’t left behind on the school bus.

Incidents of students being forgotten in the back of the bus are uncommon, but it's serious enough when it does happen that the driver usually gets fired.

The House could vote next week on a bill to fine drivers up to 500 dollars as well.

Senator Teresa Lubbers says the department of education requested the legislation.

She notes some buses now are equipped with switches the driver must walk to the back of the bus to turn off at the end of the route.

But there's no way to force him to check all the seats on the way.

The bill would require drivers to check every seat at the end of the route before getting off.

If a student is left behind, the local superintendent would have to be informed immediately, and would have to file a report with the state within five days.

The senate has already approved the bill, but would have to vote again to approve some minor changes made by a House Committee.

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