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HB 2132

To increase the penalty for passing a school bus and causing injury

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Josh Holstein

House Bill 2132 increases penalties for drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses, enhancing safety for children with higher fines, jail time, and educational campaigns.

To House Judiciary
#crime #education(k12)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2132

Summary of House Bill 2132

Bill Number: HB 2132
Title: To Increase the Penalty for Passing a School Bus and Causing Injury
Status: To House Judiciary
Introduced: February 12, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Crime, Education (K-12)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2132 aims to enhance the penalties for drivers who illegally pass a stopped school bus and cause injury or death. The bill seeks to improve the safety of school children during pick-up and drop-off times by imposing stricter consequences on violators.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes several amendments to §17C-12-7 of the Code of West Virginia, which governs the overtaking and passing of school buses. Key changes include:

  1. Increased Fines:

    • First Offense: Increased from $500 to $1,000.
    • Second Offense: Increased from $1,000 to $1,500.
    • Third or Subsequent Offense: Increased from $2,000 to $2,500.

  2. Jail Time:

    • For third or subsequent offenses, a minimum jail time of 48 hours is mandated.

  3. Felony Charges for Serious Violations:

    • If a violation causes serious bodily injury, the driver faces a felony charge with a prison sentence of 1 to 3 years and fines between $2,000 and $5,000.
    • If a violation results in death, the driver faces a felony charge with a prison sentence of 1 to 10 years and fines between $5,000 and $10,000.

  4. License Suspension:

    • Upon conviction, the driver's license will be suspended for:
      • 60 days for a first offense,
      • 180 days for a second offense,
      • 1 year for a third or subsequent offense.

  5. Educational Campaign:

    • The State Police will conduct an educational campaign to inform drivers about school bus safety and the new penalties.

  6. Camera Installation:

    • All school buses purchased after July 1, 2019, must have forward-facing and rear-facing cameras to aid in enforcement.

Impact

This legislation primarily affects drivers who violate school bus safety laws, particularly those who pass stopped school buses. The increased penalties aim to deter such behavior, thereby enhancing the safety of children during school transportation. Additionally, the educational campaign will raise awareness about the importance of adhering to school bus safety regulations.

Procedural Timeline

  • February 12, 2025: The bill was filed for introduction and referred to the House Judiciary Committee.
  • February 12, 2025: The bill was introduced in the House.

Conclusion

House Bill 2132 represents a significant step towards improving the safety of school children by imposing stricter penalties on drivers who fail to comply with school bus safety laws. The proposed changes are designed to deter reckless driving behavior around school buses and promote a safer environment for students.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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