With the new school year underway, it’s also a good time to review safety reminders when motorists encounter buses.

Jefferson Police Chief Mark Clouse says it is illegal for motorists to pass a stopped school bus when the red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended. 

“I can guarantee you that if you do pass a stopped school bus you will receive a citation for that. We really have no other choice that’s the safety of our children. (It’s) kind of an expensive citation and first offense, second offense you could actually end up losing your driving privileges for a period of time as well.”

Clouse adds bus drivers have also been trained to record the information that his department needs to do the follow up investigation.