This bill amends existing laws regarding school bus safety enforcement by introducing live digital video school bus violation detection monitoring systems. Starting July 1, 2027, all new school buses must be equipped with these systems, and by July 1, 2032, all school buses, both new and used, will be required to have them installed. The systems are designed to monitor and detect violations of school bus traffic laws, specifically violations of § 31-20-12, and must produce a live visual image.

The bill specifies that school departments, with input and approval from the municipal police chief, may implement and maintain these systems. It outlines the procedures for prosecuting violations captured by these monitoring systems, indicating that jurisdiction will be shared between municipal courts and the traffic tribunal based on the issuing authority of the summons. Specifically, the traffic tribunal will have jurisdiction over violations issued by a state agency or by a city or town without a municipal court, while municipal courts will handle violations issued by cities or towns with established municipal courts.

Additionally, the bill revises the allocation of revenue generated from fines imposed for violations of school bus safety laws. The new distribution structure includes 40% to the state general fund, 30% to the municipality where the violation occurs, and 30% to the vendor supplying and supporting the video detection monitoring system. The provisions regarding revenue distribution will only apply to new contracts or extensions of existing contracts entered into on or after the effective date of this section. This act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
568: 31-51-2
568  SUB A: 8-18-3
568  SUB A as amended: 8-18-3