The Ohio House of Representatives has passed House Bill 3, known as the “School Bus Safety Act.” This legislation introduces measures to improve school bus safety, increase penalties for violations, provide grants for safety equipment, and educate the public about related laws.
State Representative Bernie Willis (R-Springfield), a joint sponsor of the bill, expressed satisfaction with the progress. “We have now taken the first step toward better safety for our children on their everyday commutes to and from school,” said Rep. Willis. He emphasized the importance of moving forward with these enhancements and creating a safer environment around school buses by imposing stricter penalties on those who illegally pass them.
The School Bus Safety Act proposes several changes:
– Increases penalties for illegally passing stopped school buses.
– Authorizes the installation of cameras on school buses to record such violations.
– Develops a School Bus Safety Fund & Grant Program for schools to enhance bus safety features.
– Creates public education initiatives on school bus safety.
– Designates August as “School Bus Safety Month.”
The bill aims to strengthen enforcement against violations, promote safer transportation options, and educate drivers about their legal obligations to reduce accidents and improve student safety.
House Bill 3 will now proceed to the Senate for further consideration.
