HB 179: Photographic Enforcement of School Bus Safety

• Authorizes school districts to install camera systems on school buses to document violations of Florida Statute 316.172 (failing to stop for school buses) and requires warning signs on equipped buses.

• Mandates manufacturers/vendors submit violation evidence to law enforcement within 30 days; law enforcement must review and electronically certify violations within the same timeframe.

• Establishes civil penalties of $200 for violations of s. 316.172(1)(a) and $400 for s. 316.172(1)(b), with collected fines paid to the school district for safety technology and infrastructure.

• Creates enforcement procedures including notice requirements, 30-day payment deadlines, and vehicle registration holds through the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles for unpaid penalties.

• Restricts camera systems from remote surveillance capabilities, requires destruction of recorded images within 90 days of final disposition, and limits use to documenting violations only; exempts vehicle owners if their vehicle was reported stolen at violation time.