Montana HB512 requires new school buses purchased after January 1, 2026, to be equipped with lap-shoulder belts, limits liability for non-use or.

Montana HB512 mandates that any new school bus purchased on or after January 1, 2026, must be equipped with lap-shoulder belts for each passenger. It limits the liability of the state, county, school district, bus contractors, and drivers if a passenger is injured due to non-use or improper use of the belt, provided the school has an enforceable belt usage policy. The bill also revises school bus rate capacity requirements and reduces certain registration fees for buses equipped with lap-shoulder belts. It applies to school years beginning on or after July 1, 2025.

Montana HB512 requires new school buses purchased after January 1, 2026, to be equipped with lap-shoulder belts, limits liability for non-use or.

Montana HB512 mandates that any new school bus purchased on or after January 1, 2026, must be equipped with lap-shoulder belts for each passenger. It limits the liability of the state, county, school district, bus contractors, and drivers if a passenger is injured due to non-use or improper use of the belt, provided the school has an enforceable belt usage policy. The bill also revises school bus rate capacity requirements and reduces certain registration fees for buses equipped with lap-shoulder belts. It applies to school years beginning on or after July 1, 2025.