ALBANY – New York Governor Andrew Cuomo says lawmakers have reached an agreement on the details of legislation that would authorize cameras on school buses to catch drivers who pass them illegally.
The Democrat said Tuesday that protecting the safety of school children is of paramount importance and that he looks forward to signing the bill.
The proposal would allow school districts to mount cameras on the stop arms of school buses, which extend when buses stop to pick up or drop off students.
Drivers caught passing a stopped bus would face $250 fines, with municipalities and school districts splitting the money.
In a statement to WNYNewsNow, Jamestown Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Brett Apthorpe said once the law is passed the Board of Education will discuss steps to implement the safety changes.
“The safety of our children is always a priority in our district,” said Apthorpe.
School officials said all new buses are equipped with this technology or are capable of being outfitted with it.
There was already broad support for the measure but the details had to be finalized before lawmakers could act. A vote is expected within coming weeks.
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