Bill Would Let Alabama Retirees Drive School Buses

A new bill filed this week targets persistent school bus driver shortages that are disrupting transportation across Alabama school systems. State Representative Kenneth Paschal (R-Pelham) introduced House Bill 138, (HB138), a proposal that would allow certain retired educators and State employees to return to work as full-time school bus drivers without having their retirement benefits suspended.

School districts statewide have struggled to fill bus driver positions for several years, leading to delayed routes, disrupted schedules, and added pressure on families and students. Recruiting and retaining qualified drivers remains difficult as districts compete for limited labor.

“Among the most fundamental elements of providing children with a quality education is simply transporting them to school safely and on time each day because you can’t teach students if they can’t get to school,” Paschal said in announcing the measure. “This bill provides a practical solution that helps school systems meet an urgent need while maintaining responsible limits on the retirement system.”

Under current State law, most retirees in the Employees’ Retirement System (ERS) or Teachers’ Retirement System (TRS) cannot return to permanent, full-time work with a participating employer unless their retirement benefits are suspended. Paschal’s bill would create a narrow exception for those who meet clear requirements, allowing them to serve as bus drivers and continue receiving benefits.

Key provisions include:

• 12-Month Separation — Retirees must wait at least a year after leaving state-covered employment before returning to work as a bus driver.
• Income Limits — Retirees’ earnings as drivers must stay within limits already outlined in state law.
• Grandfather Clause — Those who retired on or before January 1, 2026 could return without the wait if they meet other bill requirements.
• Sunset Date — The policy would automatically expire on December 31, 2030, prompting a review of its effectiveness and workforce needs.

The legislation seeks to improve daily transportation reliability and safety. It also gives school systems access to experienced workers without increasing long-term retirement costs.

“This is about common sense,” Paschal said. “It strengthens our schools, supports students and families, and puts experienced Alabamians back to work in a role where they are urgently needed.”

The bill was prefiled and awaits committee referral and review in the Alabama House of Representatives.