Welcome to 2008 CASTO Members and colleagues!  The last legislative session in California yielded a small number of bills that directly affect school transportation providers and school bus drivers in California.  These bills become effective on January 1, 2008 or later as indicated below:

AB 139 Bass

This bill amends the California Vehicle Code to add section 12517.2 to authorize the medical examination for school bus drivers to be given by a licensed physician assistant or an advanced practice registered nurse.  It is expected that the DMV will revise the DL 51 form to reflect this change.

AB 321

This bill authorizes local governments to expand a school safety zone from 500 feet to 1,000 feet from a school site.  It would also reduce the prima facie speed limit from 25 miles per hour to 15 miles per hour when approaching a school site at a distance of 500 feet and when children are going to or leaving school.

SMOKING BAN

Smoking in a motor vehicle with passengers younger than 18 years of age is now an offense punishable by a fine of at least $100.

SB 33

This bill becomes effective on July 1, 2008 and disallows all cell phone use while driving for all motorists, except hands-free devices.  For drivers younger than 18 years of age, it disallows all cell phone use while driving, even hands-free devices.