In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated. Terms Defined. Accident. “Accident” means an occurrence or action involving a driver of a school vehicle operated by or under contract to a local school system, which results in an injury or fatality to an individual or damage to a motor vehicle or property, except as otherwise provided in 49 CFR §382.303, which is incorporated by reference, for the purpose of post-accident testing for alcohol and controlled substances. “Accident” does not include an occurrence or action involving a driver of a vehicle not registered as a school vehicle or a school charter vehicle. “Adulterated specimen” means a specimen that contains a substance that: Is not expected to be present in human urine; or Is expected to be present in human urine but is at a concentration so high that it is not consistent with human urine. “Alternative school vehicle” means a vehicle that is used to transport pupils from home to school or school to home as well as to and from school related activities that is neither a Type I nor a Type II school vehicle as stated in Transportation Article, §11-154, Annotated Code of Maryland. “Alternative school vehicle driver” means a driver who is seeking or has been exclusively certified at the local level to operate an alternative school vehicle. “Appreciable damage” means property damage in excess of $3,000. “Appropriate medical examination” has the meaning stated in COMAR 11.19.05.01. “Assistant supervisor of transportation” means an individual with high level management responsibilities who reports directly to the supervisor of transportation. “Behind-the-wheel instruction” means time spent driving a school vehicle during preservice or in-service instruction. “Commercial motor coach” means a bus that: Is at least 26,000 pounds gross vehicle weight; Has a minimum of three axles; Carries a minimum of 16 passengers, including the driver; and May be equipped with a restroom. “Department” means the Maryland State Department of Education. “External observation” means a school bus driver observation conducted from another vehicle while the school bus driver is on an established route. “Incapacitating injury” means an injury, other than fatal, that prevents the injured individual from walking, driving, or normally continuing the activities that the individual was capable of performing before the accident. “Insubordination” means violating a lawful order or failing to obey a lawful order given by a superior. “Loading zone” has the meaning stated in Transportation Article, §22-228(f)(1), Annotated Code of Maryland. “Medical review officer” means a doctor of medicine or osteopathy who: Is responsible for receiving laboratory results generated by this Program; Has knowledge of substance abuse disorders; Has appropriate training to interpret and evaluate a donor's confirmed laboratory positive or “unsuitable” drug test results, together with the donor's medical history and any other relevant biomedical information; and Is required to have a working knowledge of the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations applicable to the employer for which drug test results are evaluated. “Misfeasance” means performing a proper act in a wrongful or injurious manner or the improper performance of an act which might have been lawfully done. Multifunction School Activity Bus (MFSAB). “Multifunction School Activity Bus (MFSAB)” means an alternative school vehicle that meets school bus construction standards. “Multifunction School Activity Bus (MFSAB)” does not include a bus: Used to transport students to and from home or school bus stops; That has traffic control equipment; or That is painted school bus yellow. “Nonpublic school” means nursery school, elementary school, and secondary school as stated in COMAR 13A.09.10.02B. Off-Highway Loading Zone. “Off-highway loading zone” has the meaning stated in Transportation Article, §22-228(f)(2)(ii), Annotated Code of Maryland. “Off-highway loading zone” includes a parking lot and school grounds. “On-highway loading zone” means a stop made completely off the travel portion of the roadway on a shoulder that is at least 81/2 feet wide. “On-roadway stopping” means a stop made on the travel portion of the highway, not to include the shoulder. “Personal injury” means an injury treated by a physician, dentist, or nurse, or in a hospital. “Preventable accident” means an accident in which the driver failed to do everything the driver reasonably could have done to prevent it, according to accepted standards of the National Safety Council. “Property damage” means injury to real or personal property, the amount of which is established by evidence of replacement values and cost of repairs. “Safety-sensitive function” has the meaning stated in 49 CFR §382.107, which is incorporated by reference. “School charter vehicle” has the meaning stated in Transportation Article, §13-420(c), Annotated Code of Maryland. “School vehicle” has the meaning stated in transportation Article, §11-154, Annotated Code of Maryland. “School vehicle attendant” means an individual who: Has applied for employment with a local school system or an entity contracting with a local school system as a school vehicle attendant; Is employed by a local school system or an entity contracting with a local school system as a school vehicle attendant; and Is certified and verified by the local school system as having met all local and state requirements to be a school vehicle attendant. “School vehicle driver” means an individual who: Has applied for employment with a local school system or an entity contracting with a school system as a school vehicle driver; Is employed by a school system or an entity contracting with a school system as a school vehicle driver; or Is an owner-operator of a school vehicle; and Is certified and verified by the local school system as having met all local, state, and federal requirements to be a school vehicle driver. “School vehicle driver trainee” means an individual who has applied for employment with a local school system or an entity contracting with a school system and is seeking Department-required certification as a school vehicle driver. “Seat belt” has the meaning stated in Transportation Article, §22-412, Annotated Code of Maryland. “Shy bladder” means a donor is unable to provide a sufficient quantity of urine for a drug test. “Student with a disability” has the meaning stated in COMAR 13A.05.01.03B. “Substance abuse professional” means a person who meets the credentials, basic knowledge, qualifications, and training requirements in 49 CFR Part 40; Subpart O §40.281 to: Evaluate individuals who have violated a U.S. Department of Transportation controlled substance or alcohol regulation; and Make recommendations concerning education, treatment, follow-up testing, and aftercare. “Substituted specimen” means a specimen that is not consistent with human urine that has been submitted by the individual being tested for a controlled substance in place of the individual's own urine. “Supervisor of transportation” means the individual designated to be responsible for the administration of the student transportation program in a local school system, or a designee. “Taxicab” has the meaning stated in COMAR 20.90.02.04. “Type I school vehicle” has the meaning stated in Transportation Article, §11-173, Annotated Code of Maryland. “Type II school vehicle” has the meaning stated in Transportation Article, §11-174, Annotated Code of Maryland. “Unsafe actions” means misfeasance, incompetence, insubordination, or any act or omission that adversely affects transportation or safety. “U.S. Department of Transportation” means an agency or operating administration of the U.S. Department of Transportation administering regulations requiring alcohol testing, drug testing, or both. In this chapter, the most recent version of the following documents are incorporated by reference, except that the alcohol concentration limit for disqualification is 0.02 or greater. Documents Incorporated. U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Drug and Alcohol Policy and Compliance 49 CFR 40, Procedures for Transportation Workplace Drug and Alcohol Testing Programs (as amended). U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration 49 CFR 382, Controlled Substances and Alcohol Use and Testing (as amended). U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration 49 CFR §§391.1, Qualifications of Drivers (as amended). This chapter applies to the local school systems and a public residential education program under Education Article, §8-701, Annotated Code of Maryland, that provide transportation services for public school students, students with disabilities for whom transportation is provided under Education Article, §8-410, Annotated Code of Maryland, in a public school, a school maintained by a State agency, and a nonpublic school. A local school system is responsible for the safe operation of its student transportation system and shall conform to the regulations promulgated by the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Maryland State Board of Education, and the procedures and guidelines established by the Department. A school system may adopt policies and procedures that do not conflict with existing federal and State statute, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures. Local policies and procedures may exceed the minimum requirements established in this chapter. A local school system shall designate an individual to be responsible for the administration of the student transportation program. The supervisor of transportation designated shall have sufficient time to perform all the duties of the position as detailed in this chapter and established by the policies of a local board of education. General. A school vehicle driver instructor shall: Be employed by or under contract with the Board of Education; Have a high school diploma or a State high-school equivalency certificate; Meet all Motor Vehicle Administration and Department requirements for school vehicle drivers contained in Regulation .06 of this chapter, unless an exception is approved in writing by the Department; Have 3 years satisfactory service as a school vehicle driver; Be certified under this regulation to conduct classroom instruction, behind-the-wheel instruction, or both. Certification for Classroom Instruction. Except as provided in §B(2) of this regulation, school vehicle driver instructor certification to provide classroom instruction requires successful completion of the Department-sponsored 3-day school bus driver instructor workshop. If the school vehicle driver instructor is required to provide classroom instruction before the school bus driver instructor workshop referenced in §B(1) of this regulation is available to attend, the individual shall do the following to be certified as a school vehicle driver instructor: Observe classroom instruction provided by a certified instructor designated by the Department; and Teach a lesson under the guidance of that certified instructor. Certification for Behind-the-Wheel Instruction. Certification to provide behind-the-wheel instruction requires that the prospective school vehicle driver instructor provide behind-the-wheel instruction to a school vehicle driver trainee while being observed by and under the direct supervision of a certified school vehicle driver instructor. School Vehicle Driver Trainee Qualifications. Before a school vehicle driver trainee transports a student in a school vehicle the trainee shall: Meet all licensing requirements of the Motor Vehicle Administration, including commercial driver's license requirements with appropriate endorsements; Have not more than two current points on the individual's driving record and a satisfactory past driving record as determined by the supervisor of transportation; Complete the preservice instruction required under Regulation .10A of this chapter; Have no evidence of a criminal history which would be a disqualifying condition under Regulation .07C of this chapter or an action under Regulation .07D of this chapter, either of which in the opinion of the supervisor of transportation makes the individual unfit for employment; Be 21 years old or older; Satisfactorily pass the appropriate medical examinations for school vehicle drivers under COMAR 11.19.05.01; and Receive a negative controlled substances test result required under Regulation .11 of this chapter. School Vehicle Driver Qualifications. A school vehicle driver shall: Do the following: Meet the requirements in §A of this regulation; and Complete the in-service instruction required under Regulation .10B of this chapter; Demonstrate the capacity to make appropriate decisions, especially in emergency situations; and Properly wear a seat belt when the school vehicle is in operation. School Vehicle Driver Evaluations. A qualified school vehicle driver instructor certified under Regulation .05 of this chapter, a supervisor of transportation, or an assistant supervisor of transportation shall evaluate each driver at least once every 2 years. For regular school vehicle drivers, the evaluator shall: Ride with the school vehicle driver on a regularly scheduled route to or from school; or Conduct an external observation, if an external observation is approved by the supervisor of transportation. For substitute school vehicle drivers, an evaluator may conduct an evaluation over a sample route for a minimum of 30 minutes and incorporate all the elements of a regular school vehicle driver evaluation, except for student and driver interaction. A school vehicle driver or trainee who does not meet the qualifications of the evaluation under Regulation .06C of this chapter may be disqualified from driving a school vehicle at the discretion of the supervisor of transportation, unless the supervisor of transportation determines that retraining, instruction, or both, are satisfactorily completed. Disqualification for Driving Record. Except as set forth in §B(2) of this regulation, a school vehicle driver or trainee shall be disqualified from driving a school vehicle if the driving record shows three current points. If a school vehicle driver has three current points while employed as a school vehicle driver and the supervisor of transportation wishes to retain the individual as a school vehicle driver, the supervisor of transportation shall place a letter in the driver's individual personnel file listing sufficient reasons for continued qualification of the driver as a school vehicle driver. If a school vehicle driver or trainee has more than three current points, the driver may not operate a school vehicle. Disqualification for Criminal Conduct. A local school system shall disqualify an individual school vehicle driver or trainee from operating a school vehicle if the individual: Has been convicted of a crime or if criminal charges are pending against the individual for a crime involving: Child abuse or neglect; Contributing to the delinquency of a minor; Moral turpitude, if the offense bears directly on the individual's fitness to transport minors; An alcohol or controlled substances offense defined in federal or State law, unless the supervisor of transportation determines and reports the determination in writing, to the Department's Office of Student Transportation, that the permanent disqualification should not apply because mitigating circumstances exist; A crime of violence as set forth in Criminal Law Article, §14-101, Annotated Code of Maryland; Any action that may endanger the safety of students being transported; Driving a school vehicle or school charter vehicle while under the influence of a controlled substance, or while impaired or under the influence of alcohol; or Driving a vehicle other than a school vehicle or school charter vehicle while under the influence of a controlled substance, or while impaired or under the influence of alcohol; or Has a criminal history, including second degree assault, which in the opinion of the supervisor of transportation, makes the individual unfit for employment. Evidence of second degree assault is not deemed to be an automatic reason for disqualification. A school vehicle driver or trainee who pled guilty or nolo contendere with respect to, is placed on probation before judgment with respect to, or is convicted of an offense listed in §C(1)(a)(i) — (vii) of this regulation is permanently disqualified from operating a school vehicle in Maryland, except as provided in §C(1)(a)(iv) of this regulation. A school vehicle driver or trainee who pled guilty or nolo contendere with respect to, is placed on probation before judgment with respect to, or is convicted of an offense listed in §C(1)(a)(viii) of this regulation is disqualified from operating a school vehicle for a minimum of 10 years from the date of the action. A school vehicle driver or trainee who engages in conduct prohibited under Regulation .11B(2) of this chapter is disqualified from operating a school vehicle in Maryland, except as provided under Regulation .11D of this chapter. Disqualification for Unsafe Actions. Any unsafe action may lead to disqualification and termination of a school vehicle driver or trainee by the supervisor of transportation. Disqualification for Accidents. The school vehicle driver or trainee shall report to the supervisor of transportation a school vehicle accident involving personal injury or property damage as soon as practicable after the accident. A school vehicle driver or trainee who fails to report an accident as soon as practicable following the accident is disqualified from operating a school vehicle. The duration of the disqualification is at the discretion of the supervisor of transportation. An accident involving an incapacitating or fatal injury, or appreciable damage shall be reviewed by the local transportation staff. A driver who has a preventable accident involving personal injury or appreciable damage shall: Have a conference with the supervisor of transportation; and Attend appropriate classroom instruction if directed to do so by the supervisor of transportation. A school vehicle driver or trainee who has had two preventable accidents involving personal injury or appreciable damage in a 24-month period may not operate a school vehicle in any local school system for a period of 5 years from the date of the last accident, unless the supervisor of transportation places a letter in the driver’s personnel file documenting sufficient reasons to retain the individual as a qualified school vehicle driver. A school vehicle driver or trainee who has more than two preventable accidents involving personal injury or appreciable damage in any 24-month period is permanently disqualified from operating a school vehicle in Maryland. Disqualified Driver Database. The Department’s Office of Pupil Transportation shall maintain a confidential computer database of school vehicle drivers or trainees who have been disqualified by a local school system under §§B—E of this regulation or for any other reason. The supervisor of transportation shall notify the Department’s Office of Pupil Transportation of a school vehicle driver’s or trainee’s disqualification within 30 days of the school vehicle driver’s or trainee’s receipt of notification of the disqualification. The notification to the Department's Office of Pupil Transportation shall be in the format prescribed by the Department. On the first business day of each month, the supervisor of transportation shall submit to the Department's Office of Pupil Transportation a current list of active school vehicle drivers. The list shall be in an electronic format prescribed by the Department. Within the first 4 business days after receipt of the current list of active school vehicle drivers, the Department’s Office of Pupil Transportation shall match that list with the Department’s confidential computer database established under this regulation and immediately notify the supervisor of transportation if an active school vehicle driver or trainee is listed on the Department’s computer database. The supervisor of transportation shall respond in writing to the Department verifying receipt of notification and advise their next appropriate action. A school vehicle attendant shall: Complete the preservice instruction under Regulation .10D(1) of this chapter; Be in good health, mature, able to discharge the duties of the position, and able to command the respect of others; Be able to exercise sound judgment to make appropriate decisions in emergency situations; and Complete the prescribed in-service instruction every 12 months under Regulation .10D(2) of this chapter. Disqualifications for Criminal Conduct. An individual may not serve as a school vehicle attendant if the individual has been convicted of a criminal charge or if a criminal charge is pending for a crime involving: Child abuse or neglect; Contributing to the delinquency of a minor; Moral turpitude, if the offense bears directly on the individual's fitness to assist minors; A crime of violence as set forth in Criminal Law Article, §14-101, Annotated Code of Maryland; or Any conduct that may endanger the safety of students being transported. An individual who pled guilty or nolo contendere with respect to, is placed on probation before judgment with respect to, or is convicted of a crime under §B(1) of this regulation, is permanently disqualified from serving as a school vehicle attendant. An individual who pled guilty or nolo contendere with respect to, is placed on probation before judgment with respect to, or is convicted of a controlled substance offense as defined in federal or State law is disqualified from serving as a school vehicle attendant for a period of 10 years from the date of the action. An individual may not serve as a school vehicle attendant if the supervisor of transportation has evidence of criminal history, including second degree assault, which in the opinion of the supervisor makes the individual unfit for employment. Evidence of second degree assault is not deemed to be an automatic reason for disqualification. Disqualification for Unsafe Actions. Misfeasance, incompetence, insubordination, or any act or omission that adversely affects transportation or safety may be grounds for disqualification and termination of the school vehicle attendant by the supervisor of transportation. Disqualified Attendant Database. The Department’s Office of Pupil Transportation shall maintain a confidential computer database of attendants or trainees who have been disqualified by a local school system under §§B and C of this regulation or for any other reason. The supervisor of transportation shall notify the Department’s Office of Pupil Transportation of an attendant’s or trainee’s disqualification within 30 days of the attendant’s or trainee’s receipt of notification of the disqualification. The notification shall be in the format prescribed by the Department. On the first business day of each month, the supervisor of transportation shall submit to the Department's Office of Pupil Transportation a current list of attendants. The list shall be in an electronic format prescribed by the Department. Within the first 4 business days after receipt of the current list of active attendants, the Department’s Office of Pupil Transportation shall match that list with the Department’s confidential computer database established under this regulation and immediately notify the supervisor of transportation if an attendant is listed on the Department’s computer database. The supervisor of transportation shall respond in writing to the Department verifying receipt of notification and advise their next appropriate action. An alternative school vehicle driver shall: Meet all licensing requirements of the Motor Vehicle Administration for a Class A or Class M vehicle respectively; Have not more than two current points on the individual’s driving record and a satisfactory past driving record as determined by the local supervisor of transportation; Be 21 years old or older; Be in good health, mature, able to discharge the duties of the position, and able to command the respect of others; Receive a negative controlled substance test result; and As permitted, be included in the MVA Licensing Monitoring System. Alternative School Vehicle Driver Training. Alternative school vehicle drivers shall have 4 hours of preservice classroom instruction and 1 hour of behind the wheel instruction. Alternative school vehicle drivers shall complete 2 hours of in-service training annually that shall include topics contained in the National Safety Council's Defensive Driving Course. Disqualifications for Criminal Conduct. An individual may not serve as an alternative school vehicle driver if the individual has been convicted of a criminal charge or if a criminal charge is pending for a crime involving: Child abuse or neglect; Contributing to the delinquency of a minor; Moral turpitude, if the offense bears directly on the individual's fitness to assist minors; A crime of violence as set forth in Criminal Law Article, §14-101, Annotated Code of Maryland; or Any conduct that may endanger the safety of students being transported. An individual who pled guilty or nolo contendere with respect to, is placed on probation before judgment with respect to, or is convicted of a crime under §C(1) of this regulation, is permanently disqualified from serving as an alternative school vehicle driver. An individual who pled guilty or nolo contendere with respect to, is placed on probation before judgment with respect to, or is convicted of a controlled substance offense as defined in federal or State law is disqualified from serving as an alternative school vehicle driver for a period of 10 years from the date of the action. An individual may not serve as an alternative school vehicle driver if the supervisor of transportation has evidence of criminal history, including second degree assault, which in the opinion of the supervisor makes the individual unfit for employment. Evidence of second degree assault is not deemed to be an automatic reason for disqualification. Disqualification for Unsafe Actions. Misfeasance, incompetence, insubordination, or any act or omission that adversely affects transportation or safety may be grounds for disqualification and termination of the alternative school vehicle driver by the supervisor of transportation. Disqualification for Driving Record. If an alternative school vehicle driver has three or more current points, they shall be disqualified and the driver may not operate an alternative school vehicle. Disqualified Alternative School Vehicle Driver Database. The Department’s Office of Pupil Transportation shall maintain a confidential computer database of alternative school vehicle drivers who have been disqualified by a local school system under §§C, D, and E of this regulation or for any other reason. The supervisor of transportation shall notify the Department’s Office of Pupil Transportation of an alternative school vehicle driver disqualification within 30 days of the alternative school vehicle driver receipt of notification of the disqualification. The notification shall be in the format prescribed by the Department. On the first business day of each month, the supervisor of transportation shall submit to the Department's Office of Pupil Transportation a current list of active school vehicle drivers. The list shall be in an electronic format prescribed by the Department. Within the first 4 business days after receipt of the current list of active alternative school vehicle drivers, the Department's Office of Pupil Transportation shall match that list with the Department's confidential computer database established under this regulation and immediately notify the supervisor of transportation if an active alternative school vehicle driver is listed on the Department's computer database. The supervisor of transportation shall respond in writing to the Department verifying receipt of notification and advise of their next appropriate action. Preservice Instruction for School Vehicle Drivers. A trainee shall satisfactorily complete a minimum of 8 hours of classroom instruction in the core units of the school bus driver instructional program developed by the Department, including: First aid; Railroad grade crossing safety; and Bridge crossing safety. All or a portion of the classroom instruction required under §A(1) of this regulation may be waived by the supervisor of transportation if the trainee is currently certified by a local school system. A trainee shall receive a minimum of 9 hours behind-the-wheel instruction, except if the trainee is: A current holder of a commercial driver's license with a passenger and school bus endorsement for 3 years, and has received a minimum of 3 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction; or Currently certified as a school vehicle driver by a local school system, and has received a minimum of 3 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction. Class size shall be conducive to individualized instruction. In-Service Instruction for School Vehicle Drivers. At least 6 hours of in-service instruction shall be provided annually. Five hours shall have an emphasis on safety procedures, strategies, and laws. In-service instruction topics: Shall be selected from the core or advanced units of the school vehicle driver instruction program developed by the Department; and May include other topics contained in the National Safety Council's Defensive Driving Course, controlled substances and alcohol regulations, or personnel and student safety issues. One hour of the 6 hours of in-service instruction may be on-the-bus observation, instruction, or both. In-service instruction in the following topics shall be given at least once every 3 years: First aid; and Bridge and railroad grade crossing. Class size shall be limited to 35 students except as provided in §B(7) of this regulation. If the number of students exceeds 35, the session does not meet the State instructional requirements. A maximum of two large-group safety meetings of more than 35 students, not to exceed 2 hours each, may be provided each year. At least 2 of the 6 hours per year of in-service instruction shall be conducted in classes of not more than 35 students. School Vehicle Driver Recertification. A school vehicle driver who has been deleted from a school system's driver roster for 1 year or less may be recertified as a school vehicle driver if the individual satisfactorily completes refresher training that includes a minimum of 3 hours of classroom instruction and 3 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction, unless the supervisor of transportation determines less refresher training is necessary. An explanation to support the decision to require less than the minimum refresher training shall be placed in the school vehicle driver's personnel file. If a school vehicle driver has been deleted from the school system’s driver roster for more than 1 year, the school vehicle driver shall complete all school vehicle trainee qualifications as required under Regulation .06A of this chapter. School Vehicle Attendant Instruction. Preservice Instruction. Before riding in the capacity of a school vehicle attendant on a school vehicle with students on board, a school vehicle attendant shall complete a minimum of 4 hours of preservice instruction that includes: 1 hour of instruction in first aid; and 1 hour of instruction appropriate to the duties of the school vehicle attendant. In-Service Instruction. A school vehicle attendant annually shall complete 2 hours of in-service instruction in topics that include equipment, student management, and first aid. Instructional Records. A local school system shall maintain attendance records, electronic or printed format, of all preservice and in-service instructional sessions which include the following information, as appropriate: Name of the trainee, driver, or attendant; Name of the instructor; Dates of instruction; Number of hours of classroom instruction and topics of instruction; and Number of hours of behind-the-wheel instruction. Testing Program Required. A local school system shall implement an alcohol and controlled substances testing program for all school vehicle drivers, or shall certify to the Department that all school vehicle drivers are participating in an alcohol and controlled substances testing program. The testing program shall meet the standards established in 49 CFR 40 and 382, which are incorporated by reference by this chapter and by applicable Maryland law, except that the alcohol concentration limit for disqualification is 0.02 or greater. A controlled substances test shall be administered as part of the application process and prior to the offer of employment as a school vehicle driver trainee. An alcohol or controlled substances test shall be administered as soon as practicable if a supervisor of transportation, who has received training in identifying the signs and symptoms of controlled substances and alcohol abuse or use, has determined there is reasonable suspicion that a school vehicle driver or trainee is using alcohol or a controlled substance. Both a controlled substances and alcohol test, as defined in 49 CFR Parts 40 and 382, shall be performed following a school vehicle accident. Disqualification of School Vehicle Drivers and Trainees. A school vehicle driver or trainee who engages in conduct prohibited by §B(2) of this regulation is permanently disqualified from operating a school vehicle in Maryland except under §D of this regulation. Prohibited conduct is: Having an alcohol concentration test result of 0.02 or greater on a test required under this regulation; Possessing alcohol while on duty; Using alcohol while performing safety-sensitive functions; Using alcohol within 4 hours before or after performing safety-sensitive functions; Using alcohol within 8 hours following an accident requiring a post-accident alcohol test under 49 CFR §382.303, or until the driver undergoes the post-accident alcohol test, whichever occurs first; Refusal to submit to a controlled substances test required under this regulation; Refusal to submit to an alcohol test under this regulation; While on duty, using controlled substances legally prescribed by a licensed physician, unless the use is according to the instructions of the prescribing physician who has advised the school vehicle driver or trainee that the substance does not adversely affect the school vehicle driver’s or trainee’s ability to safely operate a school vehicle; or Testing positive for alcohol, controlled substances, or both on a test required under this regulation or by federal regulations. A school vehicle driver or trainee is determined as having refused to take a controlled substances test under §B(2)(f) of this regulation if the school vehicle driver or trainee: After being directed to report for testing, fails to appear for any test, except a pre-employment test as set forth in §B(6) of this regulation, within a reasonable time, as determined by the employer or supervisor, and consistent with regulations; If an owner-operator or self-employed school vehicle driver, fails to appear for a test when notified to do so by an employer or supervisor; Fails to remain at the testing site until the testing process is completed; Fails to provide a urine specimen for any controlled substances test required by 49 CFR Part 40, U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Drug and Alcohol Policy and Compliance, Procedures for Transportation Workplace Drug and Alcohol Testing Programs, or State or local regulations; Fails to permit the observation or monitoring of urine specimen collection under 49 CFR §§40.67(1) and 40.69(g); Fails to provide a sufficient amount of urine when directed and when it has been determined through a required medical evaluation that there was no adequate medical explanation for the failure to do so; Fails or declines to take a second test as directed by the employer, supervisor of transportation, or collector; Fails to undergo a medical examination or evaluation within 5 business days, as directed by the medical review officer as part of the verification process, or as directed by the employer or supervisor as part of the “shy bladder” procedures, but in the case of a pre-employment controlled substances test, the applicant is considered to have refused to test without a medical evaluation or examination only if the pre-employment test is conducted following a contingent offer of employment; Fails to cooperate with any part of the testing process, including refusing to empty pockets when directed by the collector, or behaving in a confrontational way that disrupts the collection process, and in the case of a pre-employment test, including when the testing process actually commences; or When the medical review officer reports to the employer or supervisor that the donor has a verified adulterated or substituted specimen result. A school vehicle driver or trainee reporting for a pre-employment controlled substances test is not considered to have refused a test under this chapter if: The school vehicle driver or trainee leaves the testing site before the testing process actually commences; or The school vehicle driver or trainee does not leave a urine specimen because the individual left the testing site before the testing actually commences. A school vehicle driver or trainee is determined as having refused to take an alcohol test if the school vehicle driver or trainee: Fails to appear for a test, except a pre-employment test as set forth in §B(6) of this regulation, within a reasonable time as determined by the employer or supervisor and consistent with regulations, after being directed to report for a test; In the case of a school vehicle driver or trainee who is an owner-operator or self-employed school vehicle driver or trainee, fails to appear for a test when notified to do so by an employer or supervisor; Fails to attempt or to provide an adequate amount of saliva or breath for any alcohol test required by Part 40, U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Drug and Alcohol Policy and Compliance, Procedures for Transportation Workplace Drug and Alcohol Testing Programs, State or local regulations; Fails to provide a sufficient breath specimen and the physician has determined through a required medical evaluation that there was no adequate medical explanation for the failure; Fails to undergo a medical examination or evaluation by a licensed medical physician within 5 business days, as directed by the employer or supervisor as part of the insufficient breath procedures; Fails to sign the U. S. Department of Transportation certification at Step 2 of the alcohol test form; or Fails to cooperate with any part of the testing process. A school vehicle driver or trainee reporting for a pre-employment test who does not provide a saliva or breath specimen under §B(2)(g) of this regulation because the applicant left the testing site before the testing commences, is not considered to have refused to test. Reporting Disqualified Drivers. The supervisor of transportation shall notify the Department’s Office of Pupil Transportation within 3 business days of receipt of positive controlled substances or alcohol test results. The notification shall be in the format prescribed by the Department and include the date the test was administered and the date of disqualification. The Office of Pupil Transportation of the Department shall maintain a confidential computer database of the disqualified school vehicle driver’s or trainee’s information reported by the local school systems under §C(1) of this regulation. On the first business day of each month, the supervisor of transportation shall submit to the Department's Office of Pupil Transportation a current list of active school vehicle drivers. The list shall be in an electronic format prescribed by the Department. Within the first 4 business days of the start of the month, the Department’s Office of Pupil Transportation shall match that list with the Department’s confidential computer database established under this regulation and immediately notify the supervisor of transportation if an active school vehicle driver or trainee is listed on the Department’s computer database. The supervisor of transportation shall respond in writing to the Department verifying receipt of notification and advise their next appropriate action. Return to Service of Disqualified Drivers. An individual who has been disqualified from driving a school vehicle in Maryland under §B of this regulation may not be considered for service as a school vehicle driver in any local school system unless the individual submits to the local supervisor of transportation a statement signed by a substance abuse professional certifying under oath that the individual successfully completed the substance abuse professional’s education program, treatment recommendations, or both. An individual who has been disqualified from driving a school vehicle in Maryland under §B of this regulation shall pass a return-to-duty test as required by 49 CFR §382.309, before returning to service as a school vehicle driver. An individual who has been placed in service as a school vehicle driver in accordance with the procedures described in §D(1) and (2) of this regulation shall be subject to follow-up testing for up to 60 months. A supervisor of transportation may disapprove a substance abuse professional's certificate under §D(1) of this regulation if the supervisor of transportation determines that the controlled substances or alcohol abuse rehabilitation program was not certified by the Maryland Department of Health. Local Authority. A local school system may establish additional policies with respect to the use or possession of alcohol or controlled substances, including any consequences for a school vehicle driver found to have a specified alcohol or controlled substance level, that are based on the local school system's authority independent of this regulation and are otherwise consistent with applicable law. Access to Records. A local school system shall have immediately available all results, including documentation, of alcohol and controlled substances tests conducted under its alcohol and controlled substances use and testing program. Confidentiality of records shall be established by local school system policy. The Department shall identify the specific records to be maintained by the school system. A school system shall have electronic access to the computer database maintained by the Department under §C(3) of this regulation. A school vehicle or school charter vehicle may not be used to transport students unless a vehicle acceptance sheet as required by the Department has been completed by the supervisor of transportation and is on file in the local transportation office. Type I or Type II school vehicles shall be used to transport students to and from school and school related activities when local school system sponsored transportation services are provided. Vehicles other than Type I or Type II school vehicles and MFSAB vehicles may be used to transport students to and from school if: The vehicle is a taxicab; Only one student is transported; The vehicle used is a commercial motor coach; or A local board of education determines that it is necessary to own, operate, or contract the use of an alternative school vehicle for student transportation. Alternative School Vehicles. Local boards of education that use alternative school vehicles shall: Develop written policies and procedures to utilize their alternative school vehicles; Require that the use of alternative school vehicles not expressly permitted by Education Article, §7-801(c), Annotated Code of Maryland and this chapter must be approved in writing by the local school board of education and must specify the length of time that the approved use of the vehicles will remain in effect; Carryout the requirements of Transportation Article, §11-154(b)(2), Annotated Code of Maryland; Require that three-point safety belts and other age-appropriate safety belts and equipment be worn by all passengers and students while in motion; Require that the designated areas for loading and unloading follow COMAR 11.19.06.05B; and Have insurance coverage be the same as for other school system-owned Class A, Class M, and contractor-owned vehicles. Alternative School Vehicle Standards. Unless the vehicle is a MFSAB, the vehicle shall: Have a Gross Vehicle Weight rating of less than 10,000 lbs. and Have a seating capacity of no more than ten passengers not including the driver. Alternative school vehicles and MFSABs shall have the name of the school district, contractor's name, or other contact information lettered on each side of the body of the vehicle in letters of not less than 2 inches in height and not more than 4 inches in height. Decals are permitted. Alternative school vehicles and MFSABs may have the words “School Students” in black lettering at least 6 inches in height on a background of National School Bus Yellow located on both sides of the vehicle. Decals or magnetic signs are permitted. Lettering shall conform to Series B of Standard Alphabets for Highway Signs. Alternative school vehicles and MFSABs shall have an audible back up warning alarm, installed behind the rear axle, that meets the standard under COMAR 11.19.02.24 Alternative school vehicles and MFSABs shall have a first aid kit, fluid clean up kit, and a fire extinguisher located in the storage area, all of which meets the standards under COMAR 11.19.02.25. The vehicle shall have a seat belt cutter that is accessible to the driver. Video cameras may be installed in alternative school vehicles and MFSABs in line with COMAR 11.19.02.39. Alternative School Vehicle Inspections. Alternative school vehicles and MFSABs shall undergo two inspections each school year in line with COMAR 11.14.02.01-.26. The two inspections shall be conducted more than 120 calendar days apart. Inspections shall be conducted by the local school system and records of each inspection shall be maintained in the transportation office of the local school system. Pre/post-trip inspections may be conducted and retained at the local level. A Type I or Type II charter vehicle shall meet the Motor Vehicle Administration requirements for such vehicles. This regulation does not prohibit the transportation of students by commercial motor vehicles that are not exclusively engaged in the transportation of school students or by entities subject to this chapter which own or operate these vehicles. Vehicles used to transport students on regular routes shall be: New; or Previously registered school vehicles originally used to transport Maryland public school students. Spare Vehicles. Spare vehicles shall be available during the time route vehicles are in operation. Spare vehicles shall be: New; Previously registered regular route vehicles; or Vehicles purchased new and verified in writing by the Motor Vehicle Administration as originally used in Maryland to transport private or parochial school students. An electric-powered wheelchair may be transported in a school vehicle if it meets all of the following conditions: The battery is not of the liquid-acid type; The battery is encased in an impact-resistant container; The battery container is securely fastened to the wheelchair; The battery container lid is securely fastened to the battery container; and All electrical terminals not inside the battery container are protected from accidental contact. Evacuations. School vehicle evacuations shall be conducted twice each school year. Vehicle Modification. A local school system may not permit an individual to operate a school vehicle if the individual is unable to operate the vehicle without modification of the original manufacturer's design and construction standards, unless the modification is approved in writing by the motor vehicle administration. Three safety inspections and a preventive maintenance inspection shall be conducted on each public school vehicle annually in accordance with Motor Vehicle Administration regulations and inspection standards. The supervisor of transportation or the Department's Chief of Pupil Transportation may require additional inspections of individual vehicles at any time. A daily preoperational check of each vehicle shall be performed each day the vehicle is operated. A post-operational check shall be conducted at the end of each trip. A school vehicle found to be mechanically unsafe shall be immediately discontinued from use until made safe and authorized to be placed in service again by the supervisor of transportation. Each local school system shall have a written procedure for conducting pre-operational and post-operational checks. The prime consideration is the safety of riders. Requirement for Stops. Stops should be approximately 1/4 mile apart. This does not apply to routes exclusively designated for students with disabilities. On-roadway stops shall be on the travel portion of the highway, not to include the shoulder, using the eight-light safety system. Stops shall be located, if possible, to maximize the visibility of the stopped school vehicle for approaching traffic. On four-lane highways, students shall be picked up and discharged on the side of the roadway where they reside. The use of taxicabs shall be kept to a minimum and restricted to those times when transportation by a school vehicle is not feasible. School vehicles shall be routed so that all students are seated and loads do not exceed the manufacturer's rated capacity. If an emergency situation creates an overload, this condition shall be corrected within a reasonable time. Every reasonable effort shall be made to eliminate the need for a school vehicle carrying passengers to cross a grade-level railroad crossing. A school vehicle with students on board may not be routed across an uncontrolled high-speed railroad crossing. Written or electronic route descriptions shall be maintained by each local school system. Loading zones shall be approved by the local superintendent of schools, the Maryland State Police, or the local police department, in cooperation with the State Highway Administration. Types of Loading Zones. On-Roadway Loading Zones. The location of the loading zone shall be on the travel portion of the roadway. The eight-light safety system shall be used during the execution of on-roadway loading. On-Highway Loading Zones. The loading zone shall be at least 81/2 feet wide and located completely off the roadway. It may be paved, but pavement is not required. The loading zone shall have a student waiting area adequate to accommodate the number of students involved. The loading zone may be near or at an intersection if the volume of traffic from the secondary street or road is low enough to warrant this location. Sight distance at the loading zone shall be adequate for safe ingress and egress. The eight-light safety system may not be used during the execution of on-highway loading. Off Highway Loading Zones. The location of the loading zone may not require the bus to back. Sight distance at the loading zone shall be adequate for safe ingress and egress. The loading zone may not be susceptible to blockage by parked vehicles. The eight-light safety system may not be used during the execution of off-highway loading. Only turn signals shall be used for on-highway and off-highway loading for safe ingress and egress. The eight-light safety system may not be used. Accident Reporting. By September 1 of each year, the supervisor of transportation shall submit a report through the Department's electronic reporting system for each school vehicle accident occurring during the previous fiscal year, for both publicly owned and contract vehicles. Only accidents that involve personal injury or appreciable damage shall be reported to the Department. Number of Students Transported. By November 30 of each year, the supervisor of transportation shall submit a report, in the format required by the Department and signed by the local superintendent of schools, of the number of students transported on the last Friday of October of that year, including distinct information on the number of disabled students transported. Operational Reporting. By July 15 of each year, the supervisor of transportation shall submit reports of the number of vehicles and the number of miles and hours of route operations for the previous fiscal year on the form required by the Department. Alcohol and Controlled Substances Testing. By March 15 of each year, the local supervisor of transportation shall submit an annual summary for the prior calendar year concerning the alcohol and controlled substances testing program, test results, and employment actions taken with respect to school vehicle drivers in the format required by the Department. Annual Report on Students with Disabilities. By July 15 of each year, each local school system shall submit a report for the previous fiscal year to the Department's Office of Pupil Transportation, in the format required by the Department, that includes: Certification of preservice and in-service instruction provided to school vehicle drivers, attendants, and taxicab drivers on disabling conditions, behavior management techniques, passenger safety restraints, emergency procedures, and other appropriate topics; and Local regulations, policies, or procedures adopted since the submission of the last report for the transportation of students with disabilities. The Department shall annually review each applicable local school system's report for transporting students with disabilities. The supervisor of transportation shall consult with a county or State highway administrator to ensure that grade-level railroad crossings and bridge crossings are reviewed annually. This shall be done prior to the beginning of each school year. Evidence that a review of grade-level railroad and bridge crossings has been conducted shall be maintained in the transportation office of the local school system. Taxicab drivers involved in transporting students with disabilities to nonpublic special education facilities shall: Meet all licensing requirements of the Motor Vehicle Administration; Pass the annual physical examination required by the Motor Vehicle Administration for school vehicle drivers; Have no evidence of a criminal history which in the opinion of the supervisor of transportation makes the individual unfit for employment; Receive a negative controlled substances test result as required under Regulation .11 of this chapter; Have a driving record that is acceptable to the supervisor of transportation; and Complete the preservice and in-service instruction as set forth in §C of this regulation. A local school system shall maintain a file for each taxicab driver regularly engaged in handling and transporting students with disabilities. The file shall contain the following documents: Proof of proper license; Copy of physical examination; Copy of driving record; Results of controlled substance and alcohol tests; Copy of criminal background check; and Proof of preservice and in-service instruction as required under §C of this regulation. Preservice and in-service instruction for taxicab drivers shall include information on disabling conditions, behavior management techniques, passenger safety restraints, emergency procedures, and other appropriate topics, unless a suitably trained attendant accompanies the student. Grants for the transportation of students with disabilities in the amount specified in Education Article, §5-218, Annotated Code of Maryland, shall be distributed on a bimonthly basis. The disabled student transportation grant shall be distributed to each local board of education. The amount of the grant shall be based upon the number of disabled students requiring special transportation services who were transported by a local board of education, on the last Friday of October of the prior fiscal year. The State Superintendent of Schools may make an exception to this chapter under emergency conditions if compliance with this chapter may make the operation of student transportation impossible or unsafe due to an act of God, strike, rebellion, or other unforeseen disturbance. An exception granted by the State Superintendent of Schools shall remain in effect only until the next regular meeting of the State Board of Education. Unless it is a transit style school vehicle placed into operation before July 1, 2004, or it was under contract before July 1, 2004 to be purchased, a school vehicle may not be used for more than 12 years, unless the conditions for its extended use are satisfied under Education Article, §7-804(b), Annotated Code of Maryland, or it is specifically exempted by statute. A school vehicle may not be used at any time to transport students if it has been in operation for 15 years or more. A school vehicle driver or attendant who has exhausted the local school system appeal process, may appeal to the State Board of Education under COMAR 13A.01.05. Education Article, §§2-205, 5-218, and 8-410, Annotated Code of Maryland Effective date: October 29, 1975 (2:24 Md. R. 1482) Chapter revised effective August 4, 1976 (3:16 Md. R. 854) Regulations .01A, .03F, .04E, J, K, L, .05, and .06 amended effective August 3, 1977 (4:16 Md. R. 1214) Chapter revised effective December 29, 1978 (5:26 Md. R. 1927) Regulation .01B amended effective February 20, 1981 (8:4 Md. R. 344) Regulation .01D amended effective October 31, 1980 (7:22 Md. R. 2075) Chapter revised effective December 21, 1981 (8:25 Md. R. 1996) Regulation .01 amended effective October 16, 1989 (16:20 Md. R. 2182) Regulation .02A amended effective October 16, 1989 (16:20 Md. R. 2182) Regulation .02B amended effective July 27, 1987 (14:15 Md. R. 1661) Regulation .03 repealed as an emergency provision effective May 10, 1983 (10:11 Md. R. 972); repealed permanently effective August 1, 1983 (10:15 Md. R. 1351) Regulations .03 and .09-1 adopted effective July 1, 1985 (12:13 Md. R. 1281) Regulation .03 amended effective October 16, 1989 (16:20 Md. R. 2182); July 9, 1990 (17:13 Md. R. 1612) Regulation .03A amended effective July 27, 1987 (14:15 Md. R. 1661) Regulation .04B amended effective October 16, 1989 (16:20 Md. R. 2182) Regulation .05 amended effective October 16, 1989 (16:20 Md. R. 2182) Regulation .06A amended effective October 16, 1989 (16:20 Md. R. 2182) Regulation .09A amended effective October 16, 1989 (16:20 Md. R. 2182) Regulation .09-1A and C amended effective July 1, 1988 (15:6 Md. R. 741) Regulation .09-1 amended and recodified as Regulation .10 effective July 1, 1989 (16:9 Md. R. 995) Regulation .10 amended and recodified as Regulation .12 effective July 1, 1989 (16:9 Md. R. 995) Regulation .11 adopted effective July 1, 1989 (16:9 Md. R. 995) Regulations .01—.12 repealed and new Regulations .01—.17 adopted effective August 31, 1992 (19:17 Md. R. 1608) Regulation .01B amended effective November 6, 1995 (22:22 Md. R. 1668) Regulation .01-1 adopted effective November 6, 1995 (22:22 Md. R. 1668) Regulation .03 amended effective April 6, 1998 (25:7 Md. R. 528) Regulation .05 amended effective November 6, 1995 (22:22 Md. R. 1668) Regulation .08C, D repealed effective November 6, 1995 (22:22 Md. R. 1668) Regulation .08-1 adopted effective November 6, 1995 (22:22 Md. R. 1668) Regulation .09D amended effective March 29, 1993 (20:6 Md. R. 583) Regulation .13D amended effective November 6, 1995 (22:22 Md. R. 1668) Regulation .15C amended effective November 6, 1995 (22:22 Md. R. 1668) Regulations .01—.17 repealed and new Regulations .01—.18 adopted effective October 1, 2001 (28:19 Md. R. 1686) Chapter revised effective October 8, 2007 (34:20 Md. R. 1740) Regulation .01B amended effective March 27, 2017 (44:6 Md. R. 326); December 31, 2018 (45:26 Md. R. 1248) Regulation .06B amended effective December 31, 2018 (45:26 Md. R. 1248) Regulation .07 amended effective December 31, 2018 (45:26 Md. R. 1248) Regulation .08 amended effective December 31, 2018 (45:26 Md. R. 1248) Regulation .08B amended effective March 27, 2017 (44:6 Md. R. 326) Regulation .09A,C,D amended effective March 27, 2017 (44:6 Md. R. 326) Regulation .10 amended effective December 31, 2018 (45:26 Md. R. 1248) Regulation .10C amended effective March 27, 2017 (44:6 Md. R. 326) Chapter revised effective February 21, 2022 (49:4 Md. R. 301) Regulation .06AB amended effective July 24, 2023 (50:14 Md. R. 594) Regulation .07C amended effective July 24, 2023 (50:14 Md. R. 594) Regulation .08A amended effective July 24, 2023 (50:14 Md. R. 594) Regulation .11D amended effective July 24, 2023 (50:14 Md. R. 594) Regulation .12C amended effective July 24, 2023 (50:14 Md. R. 594) Regulation .18A amended effective July 24, 2023 (50:14 Md. R. 594) Regulation .19A amended effective July 24, 2023 (50:14 Md. R. 594)