(a) Before the procurement of a new bus to be used in revenue operations, a public transit operator shall take into consideration recommendations of, and best practices standards developed by, the exclusive representative of the recognized organization representing bus operators of the transit operator for the following purposes:

1. (1) To reduce the risk of assault on bus operators.
2. (2) To prevent accidents caused by blind spots created by bus equipment or bus design.
3. (3) To enhance the safety of passengers, bus operators, or other vehicles or pedestrians that the bus may come into contact with while in service.