Texas House Bill HB474

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Filed: 12/30/08
• Out of House Committee: 4/28/09

Caption

Relating to the authority of a school district to implement a school bus monitoring system that records images, including images of vehicles that pass a stopped school bus; providing for the imposition of penalties.

Impact

Notably, HB474 amends existing sections of the Transportation Code, permitting school districts to utilize monitoring systems that can capture electronic or video images of vehicles violating traffic regulations related to school buses. This addition aligns with the broader goal of reducing incidents of distracted or reckless driving around school zones, ensuring a safer environment for students. If passed, certain procedures would be established for the imposition of civil penalties on violators, which could range from $200 to $1,000. The revenues generated through these penalties would support the operational funds of the school districts.

Summary

House Bill 474 aims to enhance the safety of students by allowing school districts in Texas to implement a monitoring system on school buses. This bill specifically permits the recording of images of vehicles that unlawfully pass stopped school buses while they are loading or unloading students. The implementation of this technology is intended to deter reckless driving behavior in the vicinity of school buses, thereby increasing the safety of children as they are getting on or off the bus.

Conclusion

Overall, HB474 represents a legislative effort to respond to ongoing issues related to student safety during school transportation. By allowing the introduction of a monitoring system that captures images of vehicles violating laws pertaining to stopped school buses, the bill aims to mitigate risks associated with traffic violations in school zones. If enacted, it will be significant in shaping local traffic enforcement laws and protocols to prioritize the safety of school children across Texas.

Contention

During discussions surrounding HB474, some concerns were raised regarding privacy and the potential for misuse of the recorded images. Opponents argue that equipping school buses with monitoring systems may infringe on the privacy rights of vehicle owners. Conversely, proponents emphasize the necessity of such measures in light of increasing traffic violations near school zones, asserting that the safety of children should take precedence. The debate underscores the balance between enhancing student safety and safeguarding individual privacy rights.