COLUMBUS, OH — State Representative Bob Peterson (R-Sabina) has cast his vote in favor of House Bill 3, also known as the “School Bus Safety Act,” a sweeping legislative effort aimed at increasing protections for Ohio students during their daily commutes.
Passed in the Ohio House on Wednesday, the bill outlines multiple safety measures designed to prevent accidents and raise awareness around the dangers of passing stopped school buses.
“The safety of Ohio’s children as they get on and off the school bus is incredibly important,” said Peterson. “I am happy to have voted for this piece of legislation that creates further safety protections for our children.”
House Bill 3 includes several major components:
- Increased penalties for drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses.
- Authorization for the installation of external cameras on school buses, specifically to record violations.
- Creation of a School Bus Safety Fund and Grant Program to help districts upgrade safety features tailored to their specific needs.
- Public awareness initiatives aimed at educating drivers on school bus-related traffic laws.
- Designation of August as “School Bus Safety Month” in Ohio.
Supporters of the bill say it not only enhances enforcement of current laws but also encourages proactive upgrades in transportation safety and public education, all in an effort to reduce incidents and protect students statewide.
House Bill 3 now heads to the Ohio Senate for further consideration. If passed, the new measures would represent one of the most significant statewide efforts to improve school bus safety in recent years.
