During a recent board meeting, officials discussed the implications of new legislation affecting the use of bus cameras in the district. The board was informed that while the district currently owns both the buses and the cameras, a new law set to take effect on July 1, 2026, will restrict the ability to photograph vehicles that illegally pass stopped school buses unless a town ordinance is enacted to permit such actions.

The board highlighted the importance of these cameras, noting that buses are passed while their stop lights are flashing at least five times a week, posing significant safety risks. The fines for such violations are among the highest issued by police, underscoring the critical nature of enforcing these laws.

In light of the upcoming legislation, the board plans to collaborate with local authorities to draft a recommendation for an ordinance change that would allow the continued use of bus cameras beyond the deadline. The board expressed confidence in their ability to navigate the process, given their existing relationship with the police department and their ownership of the buses, which provides them with more flexibility compared to districts that lease their vehicles.

The board will keep the community updated on the progress of these discussions and the necessary steps to ensure the safety measures remain in place.