STATEHOUSE (Feb. 8, 2019) – A bill co-authored by State Sen. Eric Bassler (R-Washington) that would comprehensively address school bus safety issues in Indiana recently passed the Senate Committee on Judiciary unanimously.
Senate Bill 2 would:
• Increase the penalties for drivers who violate school bus stop laws, including making a violation that results in death a Level 5 felony and automatically suspending the driving privileges of those who violate school bus stop laws;
• Allow schools the ability to use stop-arm cameras;
• Require schools to minimize bus stops that make children cross highways in high-speed areas; and
• Increase public awareness about Indiana’s school bus laws.
“School bus safety is an issue I’ve worked on in the past, and I’m pleased to see this bill moving forward in the legislative process,” Bassler said. “This is an issue that affects all Hoosiers across the state. It is my hope this legislation would help prevent future accidents and protect our students.”
SB 2 would also require each school corporation, charter school or accredited nonpublic school that provides student transportation to review their school bus routes and safety policies annually.
SB 2 will now move to the full Senate.
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Click here for a high-resolution photo of Bassler.
