This bill amends current law to allow the installation of high-resolution video recording devices on school bus stop bars to enhance the identification and prosecution of violators of school bus laws. It introduces new definitions, including "stop bar," "high resolution camera," and "video continuity tracking," to clarify the technology and its intended use. The bill specifies that the video recording devices must be affixed to the stop bar of a school bus and have sufficient digital storage for two weeks of continuous activation. The recorded video must be time and date stamped, include continuity tracking markers, and be of high enough resolution to identify drivers.

Additionally, the bill outlines the conditions under which the recorded video can be used, emphasizing that it is intended to supplement the observations of school bus drivers and operators. It mandates the preservation of video evidence until a prosecutor decides whether to pursue charges, with specific retention periods for videos related to accidents or injuries. The bill also states that if a school bus operator opts to install such a device, they must display a notice on the bus indicating that external video monitoring may occur. Importantly, the bill clarifies that the installation of video recording devices is not mandatory for school bus operators.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 236:130
HB1537 text: 236:130