Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) is implementing advanced technology across its bus fleet to address the dangerous issue of drivers illegally passing stopped school buses. This new initiative aims to significantly enhance safety for the more than 30,000 students who rely on district transportation daily.

Partnership Targets Dangerous Driving Behavior

DCPS has officially partnered with BusPatrol America to introduce the School Bus Stop-Arm Camera Violation Program. This program is set to become effective on April 1. The district emphasizes that the consequences of failing to stop for a school bus can tragically be deadly.

The necessity for this program is highlighted by state data. In 2025 alone, the State of Florida recorded over 8,000 documented violations where drivers passed stopped school buses. This statistic underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement measures.

Camera Technology and Enforcement Details

Over 900 district school buses are being equipped with specialized stop-arm cameras. These cameras are designed to capture video evidence and clear license plate information when a bus's stop arm is extended and its red lights are flashing.

Under Florida State Statute 316.172, all drivers are legally obligated to stop when these visual warnings are activated. Drivers captured violating this law will initially receive a Notice of Violation via mail.

Phased Rollout Schedule

The implementation of the camera system is structured in two distinct phases. Camera installation commenced in March and is scheduled for completion by the close of April.

During this initial month, the cameras will be operational, but enforcement will be lenient. Violators during this period will only receive a warning notice, which will include access to the video footage of their infraction.

Fines and Legal Framework

The official enforcement phase begins on May 1. Starting this date, drivers cited will face a mandatory fine of $225 per violation. This penalty amount is established under Florida State Statutes 316.173 and 318.18, alongside SB 994, which authorizes this camera enforcement technology.

Before any citation is officially issued, all captured footage will undergo a thorough review by law enforcement personnel. Notices of Violation will contain detailed instructions regarding the payment process for the $225 penalty fee.

If the registered owner of the vehicle was not the driver at the time of the violation, they may be required to submit proof or an affidavit confirming their non-involvement.

Program Funding and Administration

A key aspect of the program is its financial structure: it will incur no direct cost to Duval County Public Schools. The system is self-sustaining, operating via a revenue-sharing model funded entirely by the citation fees collected.

BusPatrol America was approved by the School Board to manage the administration of this system. The contractual agreement between the district and the company is set for a duration of three years.