H 472 Massachusetts House · 193rd Legislature (2023-2024)

An Act relative to improved special needs transportation and student safety, "John's Law"

This bill, known as "John's Law," aims to enhance the safety of special needs students during school transportation by requiring drivers and attendants on specialized vans to be certified in first aid and CPR. It also mandates that school districts provide these staff members with written reports detailing a student's specific impairments, such as sensory or neurological conditions, but only when required by the student's education plan or with parental consent. These measures directly affect school districts and the employees responsible for transporting children with disabilities, ensuring they have the necessary training and information to manage potential emergencies. The legislation focuses on creating a safer environment for vulnerable students without speculating on the broader outcomes of these new requirements.
Bill status passed 3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Feb 2023
Senate Passage
May 2024
Governor
Introduced Feb 16, 2023 Last action May 30, 2024
Floor votes

How they voted

This bill passed the Senate. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
10
Key actions
4
Committee
1
May 21, 2024
Upper · Passed
Senate concurred
upper
Mar 28, 2024
Upper · Passed
Senate concurred
upper
Feb 29, 2024
Upper · Passed
Senate concurred
upper
Feb 16, 2023
Upper · Passed
Senate concurred
upper
Feb 16, 2023
Committee
Referred to the committee on Education
lower
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Michelle DuBois
Michelle DuBois
DDemocratic
MA
10th Plymouth