Bill would increase regulations for taxi drivers hired by districts
The Illinois legislation would require taxi drivers under contract to transport students to undergo background checks. In addition, regular vehicle safety checks would be required.
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Under legislation approved by a House panel on Wednesday, taxi drivers and vehicles used to transport students would face stricter regulations.
Rep. Ann Williams, the sponsor of Senate Bill 1669, said some school districts contract with taxi companies to transport individual students as a way to cut costs, according to a story on Pantagraph.com. Williams told the news source that many of these students have special needs, so it might not be easy for them to take a bus.
The bill would require taxi drivers to undergo background checks and vehicles would undergo regular safety checks. There would also be some insurance requirements.
The legislation was approved by the state Senate in March. It will now go to the House for further discussion.
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