SB215 - Alabama School Bus Safety Act

• Authorizes county and municipal boards of education to approve automated enforcement systems using cameras to detect vehicles illegally overtaking stopped school buses in violation of Section 32-5A-154.

• Imposes a civil fine of $300 per violation, with revenues distributed as: 40% to the county or municipal governing body, 40% to the school system, 10% to the State Department of Education, and 10% to the Alabama Department of Public Safety.

• Vehicle owners are presumptively responsible for violations but may transfer responsibility to the actual driver by providing their name and address within 30 days, or contest the violation in district or municipal court.

• Requires notice of violation be mailed within 14 days and include photographic/video evidence, violation details, fine amount, and procedures for payment or contest; video images may not show driver or passenger faces.

• Allows appeals of adverse rulings to circuit court upon payment of the full fine, with refund without interest if the circuit court finds no violation occurred.