A new law now in effect mandates that all school buses in Texas, regardless of production year, be equipped with three-point lap and shoulder seatbelts. The enforcement of this policy begins with the upcoming school year.

Background

This legislation expands upon the 2017 requirement, which applied only to buses manufactured in 2018 or later and allowed exemptions based on district budgets. Sponsored by Sen. José Menéndez, Senate Bill 546 (S.B. 546) is a direct response to a fatal 2024 crash involving a Hays CISD school bus and a cement truck that tragically claimed two lives, including a pre-K student. An NTSB investigation highlighted the need for greater protection for school bus passengers.

Key Provisions

• Applies to all buses: Regardless of model year, must have three-point seatbelts.

• Budget exemptions: Districts may apply for exemptions if costs are prohibitive; however, they must report to the Texas Education Agency (TEA) before the 2025–26 school year ends.

• TEA reporting requirements: By Jan. 1, 2027, TEA must collect district data, calculate statewide seatbelt retrofit costs, and report findings to legislative leaders. The requirement expires Jan. 1, 2028.

• Compliance deadline: Districts must meet requirements by Sept. 1, 2029.

Implementation Across Districts

Multiple Central Texas districts are at varying stages of implementation:

• Hays CISD: Upgraded its fleet through bond measures passed in 2023 and 2025.

• Austin ISD: Has equipped all buses with lap/shoulder belts since 2012.

• Round Rock ISD: Uses seat-belted buses but is still upgrading older or spare buses.

• San Marcos ISD: Describes it as an “unfunded mandate,” and plans to retrofit during future replacement cycles.

“Implementing the new seat belt requirement is less about cost and more about consistency,” said Teri Mapengo, director of transportation at Prosper Independent School District. “The challenge is building habits — through driver reminders, student education, and clear signage — so buckling up becomes second nature. The goal is simple: support better student management and overall safety.”

Compliance Timeline

Districts must submit feasibility reports by the end of the 2025–26 school year. Full compliance is required by Sept. 1, 2029. Districts may use grants, donations, or other funding sources to help with implementation.

What This Means for School Bus Fleets

• Review fleet inventory now to assess which vehicles require retrofitting.

• Prepare for public transparency requirements under TEA reporting.

• Consider financial strategies including capital planning, grants, and bond measures.

For more detailed analysis of S.B. 546 and its implementation timeline, see the legislative bill analysis and local news coverage.