S. 5264: Bus Operator Safety and Security Act

This bill would require certain new fixed-route buses bought with federal transit money to have a stronger protective barrier around the driver’s area.

What the rule would apply to

Starting 2 years after enactment, the requirement would apply to a new fixed-route bus if:

• the bus is 30 feet or longer,
• it has a useful life of 10 years or more, and
• it is purchased with federal funds under the transit safety program, except for certain rural transit funding under section 5311.

What the barrier must do

The driver’s workstation would need a barrier that:

• extends from the floor to the ceiling;
• can fully enclose the driver’s area and block unwanted entry of people, liquids, and objects;
• does not block the driver’s view outside the bus.

Possible waiver

The requirement would not apply if the transit recipient certifies that the relevant labor organization representing most frontline workers has agreed to waive the requirement for that bus purchase.

Overall effect

In practical terms, the bill would make certain newly purchased buses funded by the federal government safer for drivers by requiring a more complete physical barrier between the operator and passengers or other objects. It does not require changes to all buses, only to covered new purchases after the 2-year delay.

Relevant Companies

• DOV — Donnelley, which supplies transit bus components and equipment, could see demand for operator barrier systems or related interior safety parts.
• PCAR — PACCAR, through its bus and vehicle manufacturing interests, could be affected if bus builders need to redesign new fixed-route buses to include the required barrier.
• ARCB — ArcBest is not directly a bus maker, but if it or affiliates supply transportation equipment or logistics for transit vehicle manufacturing, procurement changes could have some indirect effect.