Here are 2 ways Kentucky lawmakers hope to aide statewide transportation woes

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- As parents deal with daily bus delays, it's also remained top of mind for Kentucky lawmakers, which is why there is legislation moving through Frankfort to help with the transportation debacle.

"In the mornings, there's five different buses that we get to go through to figure out which one she's getting on," said Jefferson County Public Schools parent Cassie Kidd.

That's the reality for some parents in Louisville as they deal with a shortage of drivers and substitutes pick up routes.

But the problem is also being felt in other districts across the commonwealth. That's why lawmakers introduced House Bill 447, which passed with bi-partisan support. It allows districts to to use district-owned or managed nine-passenger vans to transport students.

Drivers will not be required to hold a commercial driver's license, just a standard driver's license. But they must pass standard background checks and other safety requirements.

"This opens up a door for more employees participating and more vehicles to get the students around in a shorter period of time," said bill sponsor Rep. Emily Callaway, R-Louisville. "I'm grateful to be able to just add this tool to the toolbelt of the districts."

It now sits on Gov. Andy Beshear's desk for final approval.

Lawmakers' proposed budget also increases state funding for school transportation over the course of the next two fiscal years. The state would fund 90% of transportation costs in the first year and fully fund those costs in the second year of the next budget cycle.

"I think this will be pivotal and improving transportation operations," Callaway said.

The budget has already passed the Senate, and the House is expected to vote on it Thursday.

JCPS has previously criticized state lawmakers for not funding transportation fully. State law requires it to be fully funded, but lawmakers have taken advantage of a loophole to not.

In response to the proposed budget and eventually fully-funding transportation, a JCPS spokesperson said:

"The additional transportation funding amounts to $22 million over the next two fiscal years. That funding will more than offset the estimated $8 million less JCPS will be receiving in base SEEK funding over the same period."

More JCPS Transportation Coverage: