H536 Summary

• Authorizes counties to adopt ordinances establishing civil enforcement of school bus passing violations using automated cameras installed on school buses, with violations subject to a $500 civil penalty rather than criminal charges.

• Establishes that vehicle owners are liable for violations unless they provide evidence within 30 days that another person had control of the vehicle or that it was stolen, with the 30-day notification requirement waived if notice is issued more than 90 days after the violation.

• Imposes a $100 late penalty if owners fail to pay the civil penalty or respond to citations within specified timeframes, and authorizes the Division of Motor Vehicles to refuse vehicle registration for non-payment.

• Requires school bus cameras to be identified by conspicuous warning signs meeting statewide standards adopted by the Department of Public Instruction and allows photographic/video evidence to be used in criminal proceedings for violations.

• Authorizes the Department of Public Instruction to enter into statewide or regional contracts for camera installation and operation, with exceptions for school districts operating cameras independently or those with average daily membership of 50,000 or more students.