ATLANTA — A bill recently introduced in the Georgia General Assembly would allow school districts to use any funds that the State Board of Education allocates to them for purchasing new school buses toward the refurbishment of existing school buses.

“During these tough economic times, state government must step back and allow local school systems to take appropriate measures to save money,” said State Rep. Paul Battles, a sponsor of the legislation (HB 936). “It only makes sense to repair an existing school bus rather than buying a new one as long as the repair is a safe alternative. Saving taxpayer dollars like this will help school systems adapt to budget cuts without laying off teachers or requiring additional furlough days.”

The legislation specifies that any school bus that is refurbished will be subject to all safety and maintenance inspection requirements provided for by law. Refurbishments would have to be completed by a school bus manufacturer or by a dealer of a manufacturer.

HB 936 is currently in the House Education Committee. If it is ultimately signed into law, it would become effective on July 1.