The bill S. 406 aims to enhance the enforcement of laws regarding the passing of school buses in South Carolina. It introduces a new section, 56-5-2790, which holds vehicle owners or operators liable to the Department of Education for violations of the existing law concerning school bus safety. The bill establishes a civil penalty structure for violations, with fines increasing for subsequent offenses, and outlines a process for notifying vehicle owners of penalties. Additionally, it allows for the suspension of vehicle registration for those who fail to pay penalties related to passing a school bus, as well as for outstanding judgments related to such violations.

Furthermore, the bill adds Section 59-67-235, which mandates that school bus operators report to the Department of Education if a vehicle fails to stop when the bus's amber signals are activated. It also amends Section 56-3-1335 to include provisions for suspending vehicle registrations for those with outstanding judgments for passing a school bus, thereby reinforcing accountability for violations. The bill is set to take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
03/04/2025: 56-5-2790, 56-5-2770, 59-67-235, 56-3-1335
03/05/2025: 56-5-2790, 56-5-2770, 59-67-235, 56-3-1335
Latest Version: 56-5-2790, 56-5-2770, 59-67-235, 56-3-1335