Provides an update on emerging safety issues, new technological developments, and upcoming regulations that could affect school transportation programs. Two new sets of federal regulations to watch for will govern underground fuel storage tanks and hazardous materials, and restrict asbestos in vehicle brake linings. (MD)

Reports on the Supreme Court's decision not to rule on a case involving the formation of an extracurricular religion club. This leaves the schools with no definitive legal decision for guidance in these cases. Also reports on court decisions in two recent cases involving schools' responsibility for protecting students on their way to and from…

A March 1982 Jonesboro, Arkansas, school bus accident in which nine people were killed has rekindled the debate over school bus safety, says the author. The article discusses briefly the opposition historically between school bus manufacturers and safety advocates and presents cost-benefit arguments concerning mandatory seat-belt installation.…

Presents five arguments against requiring seat belts on school buses, including the need for better trained drivers, the danger that students will be trapped by seat belts in emergencies, and other problems relating to practicality and cost. Included is an editorial insert indicating how safety advocates respond to such objections. (JBM)

Following the deaths of two elementary school students in bus-related accidents in 1992, the Coroner of Quebec held extensive hearings investigating school bus safety and accident prevention. A subsequent report addressed responsibilities of government and school board officials to correct deficiencies in school bus services and provided…