Local cities and towns prepare to implement new bus safety laws NBC Connecticut [Video]

Thousands of cars were caught on camera falling to stop for school buses in Bridgeport last school year. 

“I don’t think we can afford to lose our precious young people due to folks violating the rules of the road,” said Sen. Herron Keyon Gaston (D-Bridgeport). 

Sen. Gaston pushed for the legislation that now allows cities and towns to fine violators up to $250 for illegally passing stopped school buses. Municipalities can also issue fines when drivers are captured on school bus cameras breaking the rule. The proceeds go back to the towns and cities to increase education measures and public safety. 

“That means hiring additional police officers to be in the area to patrol the area, or whether or not there may be other safety measures, like maybe putting speed bumps,” Gaston added. 

Melissa Paul-Perez, a mother of two from West Hartford, hopes the fines will be a deterrent and …