Illinois SB1613 mandates school buses to prioritize seats with safety belts and requires drivers to remind passengers to use them.

SB1613 amends the Illinois Vehicle Code and School Code to enhance school bus safety. It requires school buses to prioritize seats equipped with safety belts and mandates drivers to remind passengers to use them properly before each trip. The bill also provides guidance for schools on instructing students and parents about seat belt use and exempts schools from liability for passenger injuries due to seat belt misuse. Effective August 1, 2026, the law prioritizes safety belt-equipped seats and mandates verbal or posted reminders from drivers.

Illinois SB1613 mandates school buses to prioritize seats with safety belts and requires drivers to remind passengers to use them.

SB1613 amends the Illinois Vehicle Code and School Code to enhance school bus safety. It requires school buses to prioritize seats equipped with safety belts and mandates drivers to remind passengers to use them properly before each trip. The bill also provides guidance for schools on instructing students and parents about seat belt use and exempts schools from liability for passenger injuries due to seat belt misuse. Effective August 1, 2026, the law prioritizes safety belt-equipped seats and mandates verbal or posted reminders from drivers.