From February 24, 2025 to June 6, 2025 the Newport Beach Police Department will be conducting enhanced enforcement targeting drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses. Officers will be monitoring bus routes and utilizing a variety of tactics to identify violators during the “Illegal Passing of Stopped School Busses - High Visibility Enforcement Pilot Participation” campaign.
“The safety of our children is our top priority," said Sergeant Sabrina Fabbri, “Drivers who disregard the law and pass a school bus are putting young lives at grave risk.”
Penalties for illegally passing a school bus can be severe, including fines up to $500, license suspension and potential jail time. The department urges all motorists to exercise extreme vigilance around school buses and obey the following laws:
- When a school bus displays flashing yellow lights, this means it is preparing to stop to load or unload children. Drivers should slow down and prepare to stop.
- When the red lights start flashing and the stop arm extends, drivers traveling in both directions must come to a complete stop at least 20 feet away from the bus.
- Drivers cannot proceed until the red lights stop flashing and the stop arm retracts. Even if you don't see children, there may be children preparing to cross.
The Newport Beach Police Department is committed to keeping our children safe. Drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution around school buses and avoid distractions that could lead to a tragic incident.
