Is a school bus driver considered an employee or an independent contractor?

In Oregon, a school bus driver is generally considered an employee rather than an independent contractor. This means that the law holds the employer responsible for the driver’s actions while they are on duty. The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) requires that any driver operating a school bus in the state be an employee of the school district responsible for the route. This means they must go through ODOT’s background checks and training before they can operate any school bus. The Oregon Employment Department also requires that school bus drivers be considered employees, meaning they are entitled to certain benefits and protections that independent contractors would not have. This includes unemployment compensation, worker’s compensation, and overtime pay. Drivers must also be paid hourly wages, according to the Oregon minimum wage laws. In addition, drivers must abide by all the laws of the state regarding employee rights and duties, such as following the employer’s instructions while on the job. Drivers must also be aware of all safety regulations related to school bus operations, and must obey all traffic laws while on the job. It is important to remember that Oregon’s school bus driver laws are designed to protect both the driver and the students on board. By being an employee rather than an independent contractor, the driver has certain rights and protections that are not available to independent contractors, which can help keep everyone on board safe.

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