Kentucky lawmakers are working out of a temporary structure while renovations continue at the Capitol building.
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Kentucky lawmakers on Monday approved House Bill 7, a measure that allows school districts to install cameras on school buses to catch drivers who illegally pass stopped buses.
Rep. David Hale, R-Wellington, said the cameras would help hold motorists accountable and improve student safety, noting that more than 1,000 stop-arm violations happen each day across the state.
“You can ask your school bus drivers,” Hale said. “They see daily violations that put students at risk.”
Under the bill, the camera systems would be funded through violations, with vendors reimbursed using fine revenue. Drivers cited for a first offense would face a $300 fine, while repeat offenders would be fined $500.
Rep. Bobby McCool, R-Van Lear, also spoke in support of the bill, sharing that he was struck by a truck while getting off a school bus earlier in his life.
“It did change my life,” he said. “I’m a lucky one. The next one might not be.”
The House passed HB 7 by a 78-15 vote, sending the legislation to the Senate for consideration.
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