Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) is enhancing student safety with the rollout of a new School Bus Stop-Arm Camera Violation Program, effective April 1st. The program is a direct response to the ongoing issue of drivers illegally passing stopped school buses.

Protecting Students: A New Safety Initiative

DCPS has partnered with BusPatrol America to equip more than 900 school buses with stop-arm cameras. These cameras are designed to capture video and license plate information of vehicles that disregard school bus safety laws. Approximately 30,000 students rely on Duval County buses each day, making this initiative crucial.

How the Cameras Work & Legal Framework

The cameras will automatically record vehicles that pass a stopped school bus when the stop-arm is extended and red lights are flashing. This is in accordance with Florida State Statute 316.172, which requires drivers to stop for school buses in these situations. Violators will receive a Notice of Violation by mail.

Phased Rollout and Enforcement

The installation of cameras began in March and is scheduled for completion by the end of April. During April, drivers caught violating the law will receive warning notices with a link to view footage of their infraction.

Enforcement Begins May 1st

Starting May 1st, the enforcement phase will begin. Official Notices of Violation will be issued, carrying a $225 fine, as established by Florida State Statutes 316.173 and 318.18, and SB 994. Footage will be reviewed by law enforcement before any citation is issued.

Program Funding and Duration

The program will not require any funding from Duval County Public Schools. It operates on a revenue-sharing model funded by the citation fees collected. The contract with BusPatrol America, approved by the School Board, is for a duration of three years.

Ashley French is a News4JAX reporter who joined the station in January 2026. Carlos Acevedo is a photojournalist at WJXT News4Jax, graduating from the University of North Florida with a degree in Communications.