Details the procedure that certain school districts must follow when dealing with disciplinary actions for bus drivers and bus drivers' assistants

This bill requires school districts in Westchester, Putnam, Nassau, and Suffolk counties to follow the disciplinary procedures agreed upon in collective bargaining contracts when punishing bus drivers and their assistants. Under the new rules, districts must generally respect existing union agreements before taking adverse action against these employees, unless a superintendent certifies that the behavior involved egregious misconduct posing a clear and present danger to student safety. In cases where such a certification is made, the bill mandates an expedited fact-finding process that must be completed within five business days. Additionally, if a driver or assistant is later found innocent or if the superintendent's decision was improper, they are entitled to punitive damages for any lost wages incurred during the process.