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Legislation to address school bus safety issues moves to governor

Last Updated on April 24, 2019 by cassnetwork

STATEHOUSE – A bill authored by State Sen. Randy Head (R-Logansport) that would comprehensively address school bus safety issues in Indiana passed the Senate and House of Representatives Tuesday.

Senate Enrolled Act 2, also known as the MAX Strong Act, would:

  • Increase the penalties for drivers who violate school bus stop laws, including making a violation that results in death a Level 5 felony;
  • Require schools to minimize bus stops that make children cross highways in high-speed areas;
  • Increase public awareness about Indiana’s school bus laws;
  • Allow a school corporation, charter school or accredited nonpublic school with at least one employee to purchase, install and operate stop-arm cameras; and
  • Require each school corporation, charter school or accredited nonpublic school that provides student transportation to review their school bus routes and safety policies annually.

“Three children in Fulton County lost their lives last year in an accident involving a school bus, and our entire community has felt the effects,” Head said. “I brought SEA 2 forward this session to help ensure no other family has to endure this kind of loss. I am hopeful this legislation encourages all drivers to slow down and keep the safety of our children in mind when driving.”

The bill is named the MAX Strong Act in remembrance of Mason Ingle, Alivia Stahl and Xzavier Ingle, the three children who lost their lives in the 2018 school bus accident in Fulton County.

SEA 2 will now be considered by Gov. Eric Holcomb. 

SOURCE: News release from the Office of State Senator Randy Head (R-Logansport)

Cass County Online