Bill > HB1308

This bill increases penalties for drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses, introducing a more comprehensive and escalating set of consequences. For a first offense, the bill changes the penalty from a "violation" to a class B misdemeanor, raising the fine from $150 to $300 and mandating a 7-day driver's license suspension. For second offenses, the bill establishes a class A misdemeanor with a minimum fine of $750 and a mandatory license revocation of at least 30 days. Third and subsequent offenses carry even more severe penalties, including a mandatory 15-day jail sentence and an indefinite driver's license revocation that can only be restored after one year and completion of a driver safety course. The bill also allows sworn testimony from school bus drivers or witnesses as evidence and permits bus camera footage to be used as proof against vehicle owners or operators, with strict limitations on the use of such footage. These changes aim to enhance school bus safety by creating more significant legal deterrents for drivers who fail to stop for school buses, potentially protecting children during loading and unloading. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.

Justice

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=2092&inflect=2