Alabama House Unanimously OKs Bus Driver Relief Bill
Alabama House passes HB138 to ease school bus driver shortages by letting qualified retirees drive full time while keeping their benefits
The Alabama House of Representatives gave unanimous approval Thursday to House Bill 138 (HB138), sponsored by State Representative Kenneth Paschal (R-Pelham), a measure aimed at easing persistent school bus driver shortages and boosting reliable student transportation across the State.
“Reliable student transportation is foundational to education, public safety and working families,” Paschal said. “My legislation gives local school systems a practical tool to address bus driver shortages while respecting the service and earned benefits of Alabama’s retirees.”
The bill is a response to ongoing staffing challenges in school transportation. School systems, especially in rural and underserved areas, have reported delays and disrupted bus routes due to a lack of qualified drivers.
HB138 would allow retirees under the Employees’ Retirement System and the Teachers’ Retirement System to work as full-time bus drivers without losing their retirement benefits, provided they meet statutory compensation and benefit conditions.
The measure does not require new or recurring State funding and gives local districts more flexibility in hiring qualified personnel. Supporters say expanding the pool of available drivers can help ensure students are transported safely to and from school each day.
The legislation also includes a sunset provision set to expire Dec. 31, 2030. That deadline allows future legislatures to assess the bill’s impact and make adjustments if needed.
HB138 now moves to the Alabama Senate for consideration. The full text of HB138 as introduced may be found HERE.
