HARRISBURG, PA — Legislation sponsored by Sen. Lisa Baker (R-20) to enhance school bus safety and better protect children traveling to and from school has been approved by the Senate.

“By strengthening penalties and tightening safety requirements, we are sending a clear message that reckless driving around school buses will not be tolerated,” Baker said.

Senate Bill 65 increases the required stopping distance for drivers approaching from the opposite direction when a school bus is stopped with its red lights flashing, expanding the buffer from 10 feet to 15 feet. It also raises penalties for violations, including higher fines and license suspensions for repeat offenders, and mandates additional driver education or examinations.

The legislation also establishes penalties for drivers who fail to prepare to stop when a school bus activates its flashing amber lights, adding an important layer of accountability.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes increased education and awareness for motorists by requiring PennDOT to include a reminder in driver’s license renewal paperwork and encouraging school districts to publicize prevention efforts.

During Operation Safe Stop in October 2024, law enforcement and bus drivers across a mere 22 school districts reported 131 violations in a single day, underscoring the urgency of these reforms.

“With Senate approval, we are one step closer to enacting stronger safeguards for students across the commonwealth,” Baker said.

The bill now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration.