Rockland Post Desk
New City, NY — Rockland County officials say the County’s School Bus Safety Program is having a strong impact, with a significant drop in violations and most drivers not repeating the offense.
According to county data, citations issued under the program declined by 30.5 percent from the beginning to the end of the 2024–2025 school year. Compared to the previous year, violations are down approximately 23 percent. Officials also noted that more than 90 percent of drivers cited never received a second ticket, suggesting the program is changing driver behavior.
County Executive Ed Day said the numbers show the program is working as intended.
“When 90 percent of violators never receive a second ticket, it tells us drivers are getting the message,” Day said. “Passing a stopped school bus isn’t just illegal — it puts children at serious risk.”
County officials also reported a sharp decline in dismissed cases. In 2024, about 900 citations were resolved without a fine prior to or at a hearing. In 2025, that number dropped to roughly 100 cases, representing less than one percent of all citations issued.
County Attorney Thomas Humbach said each violation is carefully reviewed before a notice is mailed.
“Every alleged violation is reviewed by the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office,” Humbach said. “The reduction in repeat offenses and overall violations shows this is a fair and legally sound program that is improving safety.”
Local school leaders echoed that message. Clarkstown Central School District Superintendent Marc Baiocco said student safety remains a top priority.
“The school bus is an extension of our school buildings,” Baiocco said. “Our partnership with Rockland County, law enforcement, and BusPatrol has made a meaningful difference in protecting students.”
Under the program, drivers who illegally pass a school bus with activated stop arms receive penalties by mail:
First violation: $250
Second violation: $275
Third violation: $300
(within an 18-month period)
Drivers can view video evidence, pay citations online, or ask questions through BusPatrol, the company administering the system.
County officials say the continued decline in violations reflects increased awareness and safer driving around school buses throughout Rockland County.