Jeonnam Provincial Assembly Passes Amendment to "Educational Safety Ordinance," Strengthening Legal Basis for Commute Accidents

Lee Jaetae Stresses the Need for Measures to Ensure Children's Safety

The ordinance bill to partially amend the “Jeonnam Office of Education Educational Safety Ordinance,” sponsored by Assemblyman Lee Jaetae (Democratic Party of Korea, Naju 3) of the Jeonnam Provincial Assembly, passed the review of the Education Committee on November 19.

This amendment was prepared in response to growing concerns about the recent increase in traffic accidents during school commutes and the risks present in the areas surrounding schools. Its aim is to more clearly define the scope of safety incidents that may occur during educational activities and to strengthen the safety management system at schools.

Jae-Tae Lee, Former Member of Jeonnam Provincial Assembly

The amendment includes a variety of risks that may arise during the movement of children and students-such as safety accidents involving school buses and vans, accidents involving the use of transportation during school activities, and traffic accidents during commutes to and from school-within the ordinance's scope of traffic safety.

The purpose is to resolve issues caused by previously ambiguous standards, which led to confusion in determining responsibility and establishing preventive measures.

Additionally, the amendment streamlines redundant or unreasonable provisions within the ordinance, thereby enhancing the reliability of the ordinance system and administrative efficiency. It also clarifies the safety management roles of schools and education support offices, increasing practical effectiveness at the field level.

Assemblyman Lee Jaetae emphasized, "Children's safety is a non-negotiable value," and added, "A comprehensive safety plan that includes the entire journey outside of school is absolutely necessary." He continued, "With this ordinance amendment, the legal foundation for managing school commute safety has been significantly strengthened, so we expect to see tangible changes at schools."

This ordinance bill is scheduled to be fully implemented after being passed at the plenary session and officially promulgated on December 16.