Fines increase for people who repeatedly pass stopped school buses

By WNYT

Penalties increased for passing stopped school buses

Fines increase for people who repeatedly pass stopped school buses The penalties for people who repeatedly illegally pass stopped school buses have just gotten tougher. Gov. Kathy Hochul has signed into law legislation sponsored by Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara to increase the penalties for repeat offenders. The penalty for a third violation within three years will increase from $1,000 to $1,500.

The penalties for people who repeatedly illegally pass stopped school buses have just gotten tougher.

Gov. Kathy Hochul has signed into law legislation sponsored by Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara to increase the penalties for repeat offenders.

The penalty for a third violation within three years will increase from $1,000 to $1,500.

Currently, the penalties range from $250 to $400 for a first offense and from $600 to $750 for a second offense.

The law will take effect Nov. 1.

“Ensuring the safety of our children is a top priority, and this new law will help protect them as they get on and off school buses,” Santabarbara said in a statement. “Far too often, drivers disregard the flashing red lights and stop signs on school buses, putting young lives at risk. By increasing the penalties for repeat offenders, we are reinforcing that this dangerous behavior will not be tolerated.”