This bill amends West Virginia Code §17C-12-7 to increase the penalties for drivers who illegally pass a stopped school bus. Specifically, the fines for first, second, and third or subsequent offenses are raised from $500 to $1,000, $1,000 to $1,500, and $2,000 to $2,500, respectively. Additionally, the bill introduces mandatory license suspensions for convicted offenders, with durations of 60 days for a first offense, 180 days for a second, and one year for a third or subsequent offense. The bill also establishes felony charges for violations that result in serious bodily injury or death, with corresponding prison sentences and fines.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that all school buses purchased after July 1, 2019, must be equipped with forward-facing and rear-facing cameras to aid in enforcement of these regulations. It also calls for an educational campaign by the State Police to raise awareness about school bus safety and the importance of adhering to these laws. The overall aim of the bill is to enhance the safety of school children by imposing stricter penalties on drivers who fail to stop for school buses.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 17C-12-7