Connecticut Drivers to Lose License for Repeatedly Failing to Stop for School Bus

Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont has signed a bill into law mandating a six-month suspension of a driver’s license of any driver who, upon a third or subsequent time, is caught violating the state law on stopping for school buses.

Under existing law, drivers generally must stop their vehicles at least ten feet from the front or rear of a school bus that is displaying its flashing red signal lights and remain there until the bus no longer displays lights.

Any person who violates the law faces a $450 fine for the first offense and a fine of $500 to $1,000, up to 30 days in prison, or both for a subsequent offense.

The just-signed bill requires the motor vehicles commissioner, without a hearing, to issue a six-month suspension of the driver’s license or operating privilege of someone who, for the third or subsequent time, violates the law on failing to stop for a school bus. This applies if the person is convicted, forfeited a bond taken, or received a suspended judgment or sentence for the violation.

Governor Lamont said that enhancing the penalties by requiring a temporary license suspension for those repeatedly violating the law “reinforces to all drivers the extreme caution they must take anytime they approach a school bus, and especially when the buses are displaying their flashing red lights.”

“This legislation also aligns with our broader commitment to roadway safety and the goal of eliminating preventable traffic-related injuries and fatalities. Protecting children on their way to and from school must be a fundamental priority within that mission,” testified State Senator Jeff Gordon, who noted the measure is similar to a law in neighboring Massachusetts.

A separate law in Connecticut authorizes municipalities to adopt ordinances for using camera systems to enforce the law and set fines for violations, separate from the penalties in state law. The new law does not apply to violations of these municipal ordinances.

Topics Personal Auto K-12 Education Connecticut