ALBANY – The State Senate passed legislation, sponsored by Senator John Bonacic (R-Mt. Hope) that would increase the penalties for passing a stopped school bus and require license revocation for a second offense.

The current law provides that an individual convicted two or more times of speeding in a construction zone be subject to a 60 day suspension of their driver’s license. Passing a stopped school bus two or more times, though, does not currently carry such a penalty.

The proposed law would add a 60 day suspension when the driver is convicted two or more times of passing a stopped school bus within a 10 year period.

The bill has been forwarded to the State Assembly for action.

“It is the responsibility of each and every adult to protect and ensure the safety of children,” Bonacic said on Monday. “Unfortunately, there are individuals who are careless, putting their priorities above the safety of children; making this legislation necessary. Government has a moral obligation to provide legislation to keep everyone safe. This amendment to current law is designed to further reflect the severity and danger in passing a stopped school bus. It’s an obvious and necessary precaution we need to take.”