Central PA News

Legislation designed to streamline the testing process for school bus drivers by removing redundant requirements has been unanimously passed by the Pennsylvania House. Authored by state Representative Kerry Benninghoff from the Centre/Mifflin district, the bill aims to eliminate the need for additional testing of hearing aids for bus drivers who initially pass the hearing test using these aids.

Addressing the current requirements, Benninghoff pointed out, “Bus drivers are currently required to take hearing tests. Those who use hearing aids and pass the first test must then have the hearing aids themselves tested by a certified audiologist. That’s not only redundant, it’s ridiculous!”

The legislation proposes that if a driver passes the initial hearing test, further testing of the hearing aids should not be necessary. Benninghoff emphasized that the current process lacks practicality, “There is simply no need to take this additional test as the driver’s hearing aid obviously works if he or she passes the original exam. In addition, hearing aid technology continues to evolve, and not all audiologists have the necessary equipment to perform the second test. This simply addresses a lack of common sense.”

House Bill 240 will now be forwarded to the Senate for consideration.

Questions concerning this or any issues related to state government can be directed to Representative Benninghoff’s district offices in Bellefonte or Reedsville.