Connecticut House Bill HB06393

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/19
• Refer: 1/25/19

Caption

An Act Concerning School Bus Safety And Passenger And Pedestrian Safety.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would amend title 14 of the general statutes, which pertains to motor vehicle regulations and traffic safety. The proposed changes would specifically affect the legal framework governing traffic violations related to school buses. By increasing penalties, the bill aims to deter reckless driving behaviors in school zones, thereby enhancing the protection of children and pedestrians. This legislative change could lead to a reduction in accidents involving school buses and improve overall safety in areas with high pedestrian traffic, especially during school hours.

Summary

House Bill 6393 is proposed legislation aimed at enhancing safety measures for school buses, passengers, and pedestrians. The core intent of the bill is to evaluate and potentially increase the penalties associated with traffic violations that occur in the vicinity of school buses. Through this review and adjustment of penalties, the bill seeks to reinforce compliance with traffic laws that protect children and other vulnerable road users. The need for such legislation arises from ongoing concerns about safety around school zones, particularly during the hours when children are being picked up or dropped off from school buses.

Contention

While the bill generally aims to promote safety, there could be contention surrounding the implications of increased penalties. Supporters argue that higher penalties will serve as a necessary deterrent and emphasize the importance of protecting children on their way to and from school. On the other hand, critics may voice concerns regarding the fairness of imposing stricter penalties, particularly against drivers who may unknowingly violate rules due to unclear signage or ambiguous laws. The effectiveness of the bill may also be scrutinized, with questions raised about whether increased penalties can truly result in safer driving behavior, or if further educational measures are needed to accompany the legislative changes.