Reps. Thomas, Willis Announce Introduction of School Bus Safety Bill
COLUMBUS - State Reps. Cecil Thomas (D- Cincinnati) and Bernie Willis (R- Springfield) have introduced the School Bus Safety Bill, aimed at enhancing safety across Ohio by strengthening penalties for illegally passing stopped school buses. The bill is part of ongoing efforts to protect students and improve enforcement.
“The safety of our students is a top priority, and this legislation takes important steps to protect our children from the dangers of illegal passing of stopped school buses,” said Rep. Thomas. “By strengthening penalties, enhancing bus safety features, and providing better education on school bus laws, we can create a safer environment for Ohio’s students both on and off the bus.”
“One year after receiving the recommendations of the Governor’s School Bus Safety Working Group, this legislation supports the addition of safety features and provides more strict penalties that will elevate our children’s safety while being transported to and from school,” said Rep. Willis.
The legislation incorporates the 17 recommendations from the Governor’s School Bus Safety Task Force and gives school districts flexibility to adopt additional safety features. It passed unanimously through the House Transportation Committee and was approved by the House Finance Committee in the previous 135th General Assembly.
Key Provisions:
- Enhanced Penalties
- First-Time Offenders: Fines from $250 (reduced to $150 with course completion) and optional points waiver.
- Repeat Offenders: Fines from $350 to $2,000, mandatory safety course, and up to a 3-year license suspension.
- School Bus Cameras
- Authorizes cameras on buses to capture violations but prohibits automated enforcement.
- School Bus Safety Fund
- $25M fund for FY 2026-2027 to support safety upgrades and public education on bus laws.
- Public Education
- Requires distribution of school bus safety materials at BMV offices and during license renewals.
- Additional Provisions
- Updates standards for non-bus student transport and designates August as “School Bus Safety Awareness Month.”
This bill is a critical step toward reducing school bus-related accidents and ensuring the safety of Ohio's students through stricter penalties, improved safety features, and enhanced public awareness.