SECURES Act of 2026

This bill requires the Secretary of Transportation to publish a notice of proposed rulemaking within 180 days of its enactment to establish new federal standards for seat belt requirements on all new school buses, regardless of their gross vehicle weight rating. In developing these standards, the Secretary must consider the significant safety benefits of lap/shoulder belt systems , also known as Type 2 seat belt assemblies, as highlighted by the National Transportation Safety Board and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The rulemaking should also explore innovative approaches to seat belt detection and reminder systems and incorporate lessons learned from states that have already mandated seat belts on school buses.