Bill > H1178

This bill amends existing Massachusetts General Laws, specifically Section 14 of Chapter 90, concerning the unlawful passing of a school bus, which is a traffic violation where a driver illegally drives past a stopped school bus that has its red lights flashing and stop arm extended, indicating children are boarding or disembarking. The bill increases the fines for this offense, with a first offense now carrying a fine of $500 to $1,000, and subsequent offenses escalating to $1,000 to $2,000. It also modifies the license suspension periods, requiring a minimum 180-day suspension for a first offense and a one-year suspension for a second or subsequent offense, with no appeals able to delay this revocation. Furthermore, if the violation occurs in the presence of a law enforcement officer, that officer is mandated to immediately seize the driver's license, provide a written notification of suspension, and impound the vehicle for 12 hours, with the owner responsible for all associated costs unless they can arrange for immediate removal. The bill also clarifies that the revocation of a license or right to operate takes immediate effect for at least 30 days and requires the reporting officer to file a detailed report within 24 hours.