Stop-arm cameras on buses have been a hot topic lately. Just last week, I discussed the likelihood that the cameras could really cut down on the number of stop-arm rule violators who endanger children by passing around buses when the stop sign is extended.
Well, it appears numerous state legislatures have come to the same conclusion I have. It seems highly likely the cameras really can have an impact on the dangerous driving practice, and more than one state is in the process of mandating the cameras for new buses in school districts in their states.
Just this month Wyoming and Alabama legislatures have addressed bills relating to the cameras and other states are in various states of considering similar bills.
Wyoming’s bill was approved last week by Governor Matt Mead, and states that as of the 2016-17 school year, all buses transporting students to and from school and school-related activities are to be equipped with external cameras intended to capture evidence of illegal school bus passing. This is notable considering the state still views internal cameras as optional.
The Wyoming bill was inspired by the unfortunate death of 11-year-old Makayle Marie Strahle, who was struck and killed by a passing vehicle in 2011. Over the past year, many students from her school district spoke to legislators and pleaded for proposals that could potentially stop similar tragic events.
More recently, a bill was introduced in Alabama that doesn’t mandate the use of cameras, but it does authorize school boards to decide whether to adopt the cameras, as well as allowing them to enter agreements with local police and courts to enforce stop-arm laws.
Under the law, law enforcement or a trained technician would be enlisted to review video footage of alleged violations and tickets will be mailed to the offenders within 2 weeks of the event.
The bill also required that all video which does not show an infraction should be required within 90 days of being reviewed. The bill has currently been referred to the House of Representatives Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security.
While we have no stance on whether these cameras should be regulated or required, this is yet another factor that should be considered when you begin looking for a bus. It is easy enough to look up the requirements for buses in your state, but it can be advantageous to investigate bills pending that may come into effect soon. It pays to be ahead of the curve, especially if adopting the cameras ahead of regulations ultimately provides more safety for passengers. Not only can this put the safety of all of the bus’s passengers at risk, but it can also break down the bus over time and cost you in more ways than one.
Contact Us
Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30AM-4:30PM
Website: https://americanbussales.net/
Phone: 1-866-574-9970
Address: 12802 North 103rd E Ave, Collinsville, OK 74012
