A new law is being proposed to stiffen penalties for drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses.
Despite existing penalties, the New York Association for Pupil Transportation says more than 50,000 vehicles illegally pass stopped school buses every day in New York state.
The School Bus Safety Protection Act was introduced by New York Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara. If passed, it would increase fines and penalties for illegally passing a stopped school bus.
Current Penalties:
- First Offense: $250-$400 fine, up to 30 days in jail, five points on your license.
- Second Offense: $600-$750 fine, up to 180 days in jail, five points.
- Third Offense: $750-$1,000 fine, up to 180 days in jail, five points.
If you are convicted of three violations within three years, your license will be revoked for at least six months.
Stop-Arm Cameras:
A 2019 law allows school buses to use stop-arm cameras to fine vehicle owners who pass stopped school buses. These fines do not typically result in points on the driver's license or jail time.
- First violation: $250 penalty
- Second violation (within 18 months): $275 penalty
- Third violation (within 18 months): $300 penalty
Proposed Penalties under the new bill:
- Flat Fine: $1,000 for each offense
- Jail Time: Up to six months
- License Points: Seven points for each offense
- License Suspension: Six months automatically if convicted
- Community Service: 50 hours related to school or child safety
"These numbers show that current penalties aren’t enough," said Santabarbara. "Passing a stopped school bus isn’t just breaking the law, it’s putting kids’ lives in danger. We need stronger penalties to make sure this stops."
Santabarbara says the bill also aims to increase awareness about school bus safety. He says he plans to work with law enforcement, schools and community groups to spread the word across the state.