Governor Ned Lamont today signed new legislation into law, Public Act 26-95, mandating a six-month suspension of a driver’s license or operating privilege for individuals who, upon a third or subsequent offense, violate the state law requiring vehicles to stop for school buses. This measure aims to enhance child safety on Connecticut roads.
Governor Lamont emphasized the importance of the new law, stating, "Existing laws requiring vehicles to stop for school buses are reasonable to protect the lives of children from reckless drivers. Enhancing these penalties by requiring a temporary license suspension for those repeatedly violating this law reinforces to all drivers the extreme caution they must take anytime they approach a school bus, and especially when the buses are displaying their flashing red lights."
Under current Connecticut law, drivers must stop at least ten feet from a school bus displaying flashing red lights. First offenses carry a $450 fine, while subsequent violations can result in fines from $500 to $1,000, up to 30 days in prison, or both. This new legislation adds a mandatory license suspension for repeat offenders, further strengthening enforcement. It does not apply to violations of municipal ordinances regarding camera systems.