Indiana Bill Would Allow Ads on School Buses

Indiana Lawmakers Introduce Bill Allowing Ads on School Buses

Last week, I wrote about a bill that would put even stricter limits on cell phones in Indiana schools. Apparently, Senate Bill 78 passed the Senate chamber 28-19 after a 40-minute floor debate and will be advancing to the House despite concerns with about safety, cost, and enforcement. This week, I learned about another potentially controversail bill involving our kids.

According to a press release from the Indiana House of Representatives Republican Caucus, State Rep. Cindy Ledbetter of Newburgh authored House Bill 1059, which would allow school districts to display limited commercial advertising on school buses under locally adopted guidelines.

What House Bill 1059 Would Allow

If the bill becomes law, school corporations would have the option to sell ad space on school buses, essentially turning them into big old rolling billboards. Advertisements could appear along the sides and back of buses, but only if the district adopts a policy that follows specific state requirements.

“House Bill 1059 gives school districts the ability to sell commercial advertising space on their school buses as long as they adopt policies prohibiting inappropriate advertisements,” Ledbetter said in the press release. “This is an innovative opportunity that other states have used to improve their schools, letting them use existing resources as a new revenue stream.”

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Restrictions on School Bus Advertising

House Bill 1059 includes clear limits on how ads could be displayed. Each school bus would be allowed to display up to two advertisements on each rear quarter panel. The ads could not exceed 36 inches in height and 90 inches in width, including any borders or framing.

The advertisements would be limited to black text on a white background, with no colors, logos, photos, or graphics. Ads would also not be allowed to cover structurally important areas of the bus, alter the bus in any way, or cause damage.

Ads That Would Be Prohibited

The bill also spells out what types of advertising would not be allowed on school buses. Ads could not promote tobacco products or alcohol. Political campaign advertising and gambling related ads would be banned. And, of course, sexually explicit or pornographic content would not be permitted. Interestingly enough, it does not prohibit religious, healthcare, or advocacy group advertising.

What School Districts Would Have to Decide

School corporations that choose to allow advertising would need to clearly outline its policy. That policy would have to include how much advertisers will be charged, who has the authority to sell and approve advertisements, and how the ads will be attached or painted on the buses. School districts would also have the ability to decide what types of advertising they consider appropriate and could impose additional restrictions beyond what the bill requires.

Other States Already Use School Bus Advertising

Similar laws are already in place in states like Arizona, Texas, and California. In those states, revenue generated from school bus advertising. And Indiana schools are no stranger to advertising around student bodies. If you've ever been to a sporting event at a school, I'm sure you've seen plenty of sponsorship.

According to the press release, funds generated under House Bill 1059 could be used for school related and transportation expenses. Other states have allowed school bus advertising for years, and some districts have seen meaningful income from it. An article from The Guardian notes that Alpha Media, a company that manages school bus advertising, estimates a district with a fleet of 250 buses could make nearly $1 million over four years.

Could This Help Indiana’s School Bus Shortage

That level of revenue could be a game changer for school transportation in Indiana. Right now, some local school systems do not have enough buses. Families end up on wait lists or are told buses do not serve their address.

Whether turning school buses into advertising space is a smart solution or a step too far is likely to spark plenty of debate. I guess if House Bill 1059 is passed, the revenue can fund the locked bags schools will need if Senate Bill 78 passes.

Does anyone else feel like a little ping-pong ball right now?

What Happens Next

House Bill 1059 has been referred to the House Education Committee for consideration. To learn more about the bill or follow the legislative session, you can visit iga.in.gov. To contact your representative, find their contact information here. 

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