School transportation; new passenger buses; seat belts required; effective date; emergency.

HB 1244 requires all new school buses purchased or contracted for use by Oklahoma school districts on or after July 1, 2025, to have seat belts for every passenger. This applies specifically to buses with a capacity of ten or more passengers. The bill mandates this change for new vehicles only, not existing buses, and updates signage requirements for school buses. It directly affects school districts and transportation contractors responsible for providing school bus services. The law takes effect July 1, 2025, following an emergency declaration.