Democrats from New Jersey this week proposed legislation that would impose a nationwide seatbelt requirement for school buses.
One teacher and one student were killed and dozens were injured in Morris County, New Jersey when a school bus driver made an illegal turn, and a dump truck crashed into it from behind.
In response, Sen. Bob Menendez and Rep. Josh Gottheimer proposed the Secure Every Child Under the Right Equipment Standards Act, or the SECURE Act. Their bill would require all school buses to be installed with three-point lap and shoulder belts, and require steps to make sure children wear them.
“My kids could have been on that bus – and I can’t imagine what those families are going through,” Gottheimer said Tuesday. “As a parent and as a Congressman, I’m announcing the SECURES Act to help ensure that every child in America is as safe as possible when they’re on the road.”
“The recent tragedy only underscores why it’s important to review and upgrade safety standards over time,” Menendez said. “There was a time not too long ago when seat belts weren’t even required in cars, let alone school buses, but we owe it to our constituents to do everything in our power to improve the safety of our roadways.”
It’s not clear the bill can move through the GOP Congress, although Rep. John Faso, R-N.Y., is a cosponsor of the House version.
