Res. No. 1000
Resolution calling upon the New York State Assembly to pass and the Governor to sign A.8113, in relation to the qualifications of bus drivers.
By Council Members Gennaro, Comrie, Koslowitz, Nelson, Vacca, Koppell, Rose, Chin, Mark-Viverito, Vallone, Rodriguez, Levin, Barron, Crowley, Jackson and Halloran
Whereas, Since March 2011, there have been three major interstate bus crashes resulting in 21 passenger fatalities; and
Whereas, In each of the fatal bus crashes, driver negligence has been suspected to be a contributing factor to the crash; and
Whereas, A.8113 would amend Vehicle and Traffic Law Section 509-9(2), to require that bus drivers undergo background checks; and
Whereas, Under current state law only school bus drivers are required to undergo a
background check for employment; and
Whereas, Since March 2011, the New York State Department of Transportation has
conducted over 1,200 random checks of interstate buses on the road; and
Whereas, These random checks have resulted in 124 bus drivers being taken off the road,
with 14 percent of these drivers having improper or suspended licenses; and
Whereas, In addition to the roadside checks, New York State has conducted over 300
inspections of interstate buses in New York City, resulting in 55 drivers being removed for serious violations; and
Whereas, In order to restore the confidence of passengers and the safety of buses, it is necessary to require all bus drivers to undergo background checks; and
Whereas, The New York State Senate on June 2, 2011, passed S.5171B requiring background checks of bus drivers; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the Council of the City of New York calls upon the New York State
Assembly to pass and the Governor to sign A.8113, in relation to the qualifications of bus drivers.
LS# 2544
6/9/2011
GZ