Pennsylvania welcomed its inaugural fleet of electric school buses, a huge milestone funded by the Biden administration that underscores the president’s commitment to addressing climate change.
The event, hosted by First Student, a leading school transportation provider, marks the deployment of six new electric buses in Harrisburg. These buses, financed through the Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean School Bus Program under the bipartisan infrastructure law, signal a shift towards greener transportation solutions.
Manufactured by IC Bus Tulsa in Oklahoma with labor from United Auto Workers, these electric buses represent a tangible step towards reducing emissions and improving air quality in communities across Pennsylvania.
Electric School Buses (Credits: FOX 29 News Philadelphia)
Kevin Matthews, head of electrification at First Student, emphasized the bipartisan support for greener school transportation, highlighting the widespread benefits beyond political affiliations.
According to Matthews, the transition to electric buses not only mitigates climate impacts but also enhances student safety and behavior.
Quieter buses foster a conducive learning environment by reducing distractions, particularly for students with special needs. Addressing behavioral issues could alleviate the ongoing school bus driver shortage, a challenge exacerbated by wage concerns and student conduct.
First Student’s initiative extends beyond Pennsylvania, with electric buses already operational in several states, including Oregon, California, Missouri, Illinois, Montana, and Rhode Island. The buses are equipped with First Student FlexCharge chargers, facilitating efficient charging on school campuses.
President Biden (Credits: Common Dreams)
The Clean School Bus Program, administered by the EPA, aims to combat climate change and promote public health by transitioning school districts to clean or zero-emission buses.
The initiative aligns with President Biden’s climate agenda, reflecting his strategic focus on Pennsylvania, a critical battleground state where he has campaigned extensively.
Despite polling challenges against former President Trump in Pennsylvania, Biden remains steadfast in his efforts to engage with voters and promote his administration’s achievements. Recent visits to Scranton and Pittsburgh underscore his commitment to rallying support in a state he considers a second home.
