Clean School Bus Reauthorization Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Hayes, Jahana [D-CT-5]
- Committees
- Energy and Commerce Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Oct 9, 2026
Bottom line
This bill extends the Clean School Bus Program's authorization for an additional five years, from 2027 to 2031, allowing for continued federal support for cleaner school buses.
What it actually does
This bill amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to extend the authorization for the Clean School Bus Program. It specifically changes the authorized years for the program from "2022 through 2026" to "2027 through 2031", ensuring continued eligibility for federal funding for initiatives aimed at replacing existing school buses with clean, zero-emission models. This reauthorization allows the program to continue its efforts to improve air quality around schools and reduce children's exposure to harmful emissions.
Section 2
Reauthorization of Clean School Bus Program
This section amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to extend the period during which the Clean School Bus Program is authorized. Specifically, it updates the authorization timeframe from the original "2022 through 2026" to a new period of "2027 through 2031." This change ensures that the program can continue to receive funding and support for its activities, which typically involve grants and rebates for school districts to replace older, high-emission school buses with cleaner alternatives, such as electric buses.
The bill reauthorizes the Clean School Bus Program by extending its authorization period from 2022-2026 to 2027-2031, referencing Section 741(f) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 16091(f)).
Section 2
Why it matters:This is standard legislative practice for amending existing law. The bill assumes familiarity with the underlying statute it modifies. It is not evasive, but rather a concise way to update an existing program without reprinting its entire text.
Case for: Supporters would argue that extending the program ensures continued investment in cleaner transportation for children, reducing their exposure to harmful emissions and contributing to environmental goals. It provides certainty for school districts and manufacturers by signaling ongoing federal commitment to clean school bus initiatives.
Case against: Critics, if any, might argue against the continued federal spending on such programs, or suggest that the program's design could be improved, or that local entities should bear the full cost. However, for a simple reauthorization of an existing program, direct opposition is less common unless the program itself is highly controversial.
Estimated impact: This reauthorization enables the potential for billions of dollars in future federal funding to continue supporting the transition to zero-emission school buses across the nation, subject to future appropriations. The program has already committed significant funds, and this extension allows for further investment.