Feds Cite Delaware School Bus Contractor

Federal regulators have cited a Delaware school bus contractor for safety compliance violations.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has issued a civil penalty notice against Lehane’s Bus Service of New Castle, with a fine of more than $83,000.

Officials say the notice is the result of a nationwide safety initiative earlier this year. The alleged violations include hiring a driver who tested positive for drugs, failing to conduct random drug and alcohol tests, operating vehicles without the proper insurance, and operating vehicles that had not been inspected for safety defects.

Lehane’s co-owner Joan Rossell said the company is addressing the findings, most of which she suggested involved minor oversights.

Lehane’s serves students in the Smyrna and Appoquinimink school districts, as well as five charter schools.