The bill H. 4304 aims to enhance the enforcement of laws regarding the unlawful overtaking and passing of school buses in South Carolina. It introduces a new section, 56-5-2790, which holds vehicle owners or operators jointly liable to the Department of Education for civil penalties associated with violations of Section 56-5-2770. The penalties include a maximum of $100 for the first violation and $250 for subsequent violations within a year. If penalties are not paid within 30 days, additional civil penalties may apply, and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is mandated to suspend vehicle registrations for outstanding judgments related to these violations. The bill also outlines the process for notifying vehicle owners of violations and provides specific defenses for owners who were not operating the vehicle at the time of the violation.

Additionally, the bill adds Section 59-67-235, requiring school bus operators to report to the Department of Education within 24 hours if a vehicle fails to stop when the bus's amber signals are activated. It amends Section 56-3-1335 to include provisions for suspending vehicle registrations for outstanding judgments related to passing school buses, similar to existing regulations for toll violations. The bill is designed to improve safety around school buses and ensure compliance with traffic laws, with the provisions taking effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
04/03/2025: 56-5-2790, 59-67-235, 56-3-1335
04/30/2025: 56-5-2790, 59-67-235, 56-3-1335
Latest Version: 56-5-2790, 59-67-235, 56-3-1335