Albany, NY – Assemblyman Ari Brown (R,C-Cedarhurst) yesterday demanded action on Assemblyman Robert Smullen’s Bill A. 2005, which would allow rural school districts to request a waiver from the state’s zero-emission school bus requirements. The bill directly addresses the financial burden and operational challenges rural districts face trying to meet these expensive and unworkable mandates.

“The governor’s blanket mandate is not only unrealistic, it’s an outright burden on rural schools across the state,” said Assemblyman Brown. “The one-size-fits-all approach fails to recognize the unique challenges these districts face and it risks diverting vital funds away from core educational needs.”

Brown, joined by superintendents from Canajoharie, Hartford and Gloversville Central School Districts, called attention to the pressing financial and logistical issues these districts are grappling with. Without the option for waivers, many schools will be forced to incur costs that would threaten other essential services and programs.

At the press conference, Brown pointed to a personal example of a more reliable and efficient alternative. “I drive a 40-year-old diesel vehicle—proven, efficient and reliable and far less prone to the safety hazards we’ve seen with these electric school buses,” he said. “Diesel buses have fewer moving parts, are more reliable and have a longer range, meaning fewer breakdowns and fewer concerns about safety. A few of these new electric school buses have already faced fire incidents. This is a clear case where the government’s push for ‘green’ technology isn’t thought through and it puts our children’s safety and our rural schools at risk.”

Brown emphasized the practicality of diesel school buses, particularly for rural communities, which often face longer travel distances and fewer resources. The cost and complexity of transitioning to electric vehicles are simply untenable for these districts.

“This bill is not just about flexibility, it’s about preserving the ability of rural school districts to maintain the services their communities rely on,” Brown added. “Without the ability to opt out, these schools will suffer, and ultimately, it’s the students and taxpayers who will pay the price.”

 Assemblyman Brown reaffirmed his commitment to fighting for policies that work for all New Yorkers—not just those in urban or affluent areas. “It’s time to stop forcing expensive mandates on rural districts and allow them to continue providing quality education without crippling financial strain.