Proposal to increase penalties for drivers who illegally pass school buses

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10)---Back to school means more buses back on the roads.

"There will be over 50,000 school buses on our highways starting this week and when you see that bus, pay attention," urged David Christopher, Executive Director of the New York Association for Pupil Transportation. "Don’t drive distracted and when those red lights come on, stop for the bus. And that includes on divided highways as well."

Christopher said drivers illegally pass school buses all the time.

"In a recent survey that was conducted in our state and as part of a National Association of School Directors of Pupil Transportation survey— that showed over 110 illegal passings in a day in New York State."

NYAPT believes that number is low based on data from stop arm camera programs.

Here in New York if caught by a school bus camera, the owner of the vehicle can receive a fine between $250-$300 depending on the number of offenses.

If caught by law enforcement, the fines start at $250 and you can spend 30-days in jail.

However, a new state bill introduced would increase those consequences significantly.

"Under my bill, that would be a $1,000 fine, 7 points on your license. You would need to do 50 hours of community service and also your license would be suspended up to 6 months," explained Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara.

Santabarbara said that is for the first conviction and the bill also includes jail time of up to 6 months.

"Anything that can draw people’s attention and get them focused on safe driving, certainly we are in favor of," explained Christopher.

Santabarbara is hoping the bill will be passed in the upcoming legislative session.