New York’s plan to require fully electric school buses by 2035 is drawing sharp resistance from districts and lawmakers, according to WSTM. Several Central New York voters have already rejected bus purchase proposals, citing steep costs and technology limits.
Cazenovia school officials say $100 million in state aid barely dents expenses across 731 districts. North Syracuse leaders say an electric bus costs nearly $500,000 and would electrify only about 40% of their fleet. The district has applied for a waiver.
Assemblyman John Mikulin introduced a bill allowing districts to opt out, calling the mandate an unfunded burden. NYSERDA counters that $500 million in incentives can cover most cost differences and says current buses meet typical route ranges.
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