By Josh Bergeron

josh.bergeron@salisburypost.com

A measure that would increase penalties on drivers that pass school buses advanced once step closer to final passage when the N.C. Senate voted 46 to 2 to approve the bill on its second reading.

The bill, sponsored by Sen. Tom McInnis, R-25, needs to pass the Senate on its third reading before advancing to the House. Its other primary sponsor is Sen. John Alexander, a Republican who represents a portion of Wake county. The bill would allow counties to adopt an ordinance that allows safety cameras on buses and a $500 civil penalty in addition to the current criminal offense for drivers who pass a stopped school bus.

If a violator fails to pay the fine, the bill prevents the Division of Motor Vehicles from register the vehicle of the person. A late penalty of $100 would also be assessed, according to the bill.

“This legislation will penalize drivers who endanger the lives of schoolchildren in North Carolina,” Alexander and McInnis said in a joint statement released after the Wednesday’s vote. “It is our sincere hope that this bill will help reduce the number of tragic incidents at bus stops and create a safer environment for students throughout our state.”

The bill states no insurance points would be authorized as a result of the violation.

Any Rowan residents cited with a violation and challenging the charge would be subject to a nonjudicial hearing, if county commissioners adopt an ordinance, according to the bill.

Those challenging the fine wouldn’t have to pay if the vehicle was stolen at the time of the violation.

Only two senators voted against the proposal: Majority Whip Jerry Tillman, a republican who represents Moore and Randolph counties, and Sen. Floyd McKissick, a Democrat who represents Durham and Granville counties.

Sen. Andrew Brock, a Republican who represents part of Rowan, voted in favor of McInnis’ bill.

Current state law already makes passing stopped school buses illegal. A violation is a class one misdemeanor, resulting in a minimum of a $500 fine. Striking a child while passing a stopped school bus is a class one felony, according to state law.

The bill is on the Senate’s calendar for final passage today.

Contact reporter Josh Bergeron at 704-797-4246