Saratoga Standard

Assemblyman Matt Simpson and Assemblyman Robert Smullen have expressed their support for a legislative proposal aimed at providing rural school districts in New York with more flexibility concerning the state's zero-emission bus mandate. The state currently requires all school districts to transition to zero-emission buses by 2027, a mandate affecting over 700 districts.

Simpson has highlighted several challenges that rural districts face in meeting this requirement, including financial constraints, limited electrical infrastructure, driver shortages, and challenging weather conditions. "This mandate simply isn’t feasible for many of our rural school districts," said Simpson. He emphasized the need for more time and flexibility for these schools to address their unique circumstances compared to those in downstate areas.

The proposed legislation would allow affected school districts to apply for a waiver from the commissioner of education. This waiver would enable them to continue using their current buses or find alternative solutions until they are ready to comply with the mandate. Simpson stated, "By allowing districts to apply for a waiver, we can ensure they’re not financially burdened or forced into a transition that isn’t feasible in their communities."

Smullen and other state legislators joined district superintendents from the North Country in supporting this initiative. They aim to prevent additional unfunded mandates that could divert resources away from student success.