The new law mandates that any school buses manufactured in Illinois have three-point seat belts starting in 2031.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Gov. JB Pritzker signed a bill into law Friday to require seat belts for all new school buses. 

The new law mandates that any school buses manufactured in Illinois have three-point seat belts starting in 2031. 

Sponsors said this change is solely about student safety, as lawmakers on both sides of the aisle want children to come and go from school safely.

"This is really the standard for every new bus today that is being manufactured," said Rep. Bob Morgan (D-Highland Park). "So, this really should not be any difficulty for school districts. In fact, school districts might not have a choice as we go in this direction, that manufacturers are already including this in every bus that's being manufactured."

Illinois will grandfather in any school buses purchased before 2031.

The measure passed out of the House on an 83-27 vote and received a 39-13 vote in the Senate.

"Knowing their children are buckled in for their daily commute can give parents greater peace of mind," said Sen. Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest). "School buses are already engineered for safety, but additional features can make them even safer." 

The new law took effect immediately. 

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