Luzerne Times

The Senate Transportation Committee has advanced a significant legislative proposal introduced by Senator Lisa Baker aimed at enhancing school bus safety laws in Pennsylvania. The bill, known as Senate Bill 65, seeks to address the ongoing issue of vehicles illegally passing stopped school buses.

Senator Baker emphasized the importance of this legislation, stating, "Every day, children across the commonwealth rely on school buses for safe transport, and it is our duty to ensure that safety is upheld to the highest standard." She noted that the current number of violations highlights the need for stricter measures to protect students.

The proposed bill includes several key changes. It increases the required stopping distance for drivers approaching a stopped school bus from 10 feet to 15 feet. This change aims to provide a safer buffer zone for children boarding or leaving the bus.

Additionally, repeat offenders who fail to stop when a school bus's red signal lights and side stop arm are activated will face stiffer penalties. These include higher fines and mandatory driver education. For second or subsequent offenses, individuals will receive five points on their license and a 60-day suspension. They will also be fined at least $500 with an additional $35 surcharge directed towards the School Bus Safety Grant Program. Offenders must attend either a driver improvement course or undergo an examination as determined by PennDOT.

First-time offenders will see modified penalties under this legislation. Judges may impose fines ranging from $250 to $500 instead of the current flat rate of $250. The bill also introduces penalties for drivers who do not prepare to stop when a bus activates its flashing amber lights.

The necessity for these updates is highlighted by data from "Operation Safe Stop" conducted in October 2024. During this initiative, law enforcement and bus drivers reported 131 violations within just one day across 22 school districts.

Senator Baker remarked on the urgency of these measures: “This legislation sends a strong message that we will not tolerate reckless driving around school buses, and I look forward to seeing it advance through the Senate.”

The Pennsylvania School Bus Association backs this legislative effort. With approval from today's committee meeting, Senate Bill 65 now proceeds to the full Senate for further consideration.