New Florida Laws Taking Effect in 2024

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a new bill, effective July 1, that permits school districts to install exterior cameras on buses to capture footage of drivers illegally passing a bus displaying a stop sign. Offenders caught on camera could face a fine of up to $255.

Key Points of the Law:

Exterior Cameras: School buses can be equipped with exterior cameras to record violations.

Public Notification: Districts must install a "CAMERA ENFORCED" sign on each bus with a camera and run a 30-day public awareness campaign.

Law Enforcement Collaboration: School districts must collaborate with local law enforcement, providing details of each infraction, including recorded images, license plate numbers, and the date, time, and location of the violation.

Penalties: Violators will be fined $200, payable to the school district, to fund safety technology and enforcement. An additional $25 will be allocated to the Department of Health’s Emergency Medical Services Trust Fund for trauma centers.

Existing Penalty: Since January 1, 2021, drivers failing to stop for a school bus face a $200 penalty.

This initiative aims to enhance the safety of students by deterring illegal passing of school buses.