Bill > HB344

This bill modifies the penalties for drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses, as captured by school bus cameras. Currently, the law allows for a civil monetary penalty when a vehicle is recorded disregarding school bus stopping rules. The bill introduces a tiered penalty structure: for the first violation in a jurisdiction, the fine will be $300; for a second violation, the fine increases to $500; and for a third or subsequent violation, the fine remains at $1,000. The purpose of this legislation appears to be creating a more graduated approach to penalizing drivers who repeatedly fail to stop for school buses, which is a critical safety issue. By implementing escalating fines, the bill aims to discourage repeat offenses and protect children who are most vulnerable when entering or exiting school buses. The bill specifically amends Code Section 40-6-163 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated to implement these penalty changes.

Justice

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/70101