(WKYT) – A new Kentucky law targeting drivers who pass stopped school buses took effect this week, setting up a statewide framework for bus-mounted camera systems and establishing a $300 fine for first-time offenders.
House Bill 7 passed the General Assembly and was signed into law by the governor. The law addresses cameras placed on or near stop arms — the extended arms that deploy when school buses load or unload children. School districts can opt in to the program.
Knox County already using cameras
Knox County Schools has had cameras on its buses for years. Three cameras are mounted on each bus, positioned just below the stop arm to capture video of drivers who fail to stop.
“That way if our buses are transporting, if we have some avoiding the stop sign, we’ve got them on camera,” said Frank Shelton of Knox County Schools.
Shelton said the new law, combined with the district’s existing camera setup, provides coverage from multiple angles.
“We got you passing our buses, we got you coming in front. We got you coming from behind. There’s no way for you to escape being seen. They will come after you,” Shelton said.
Shelton said Knox County Schools will work with the Knox County Sheriff’s Office to send violations to drivers captured on camera.
Other districts exploring or implementing cameras
Fayette County Schools is exploring the program. Jessamine County officials said they have already installed cameras on a number of their buses. Pulaski County’s superintendent also says they are looking into the program.
Shelton acknowledged that violations do occur, even in Knox County.
“You do occasionally have someone who doesn’t pay attention. That’s really no excuse,” he said.
How fine money is distributed
According to House Bill 7, money collected through the civil penalty goes to the school district — unless the penalty is collected as a result of an action taken by the Court of Justice.