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The controversial program of cameras installed in Miami-Dade school buses could resume operations, six months after being suspended due to technical issues, public criticism, and the absence of a clear mechanism to contest fines.
El Nuevo Herald reported that during a school board meeting held this week, board member Danny Espino proposed to resume the initiative through a new system of virtual hearings.
The system will be managed by administrative judges from Tallahassee, who must resolve approximately 8,600 pending fine disputes. The proposal will be voted on October 8.
The program, initiated in 2023 by the school district and the private company BusPatrol, allowed for the issuance of automatic fines of $225 to drivers who failed to stop at the "stop" signal of public buses. The company retained 70% of the revenue, while 30% went to the district. Private buses were not included in this measure.
The original intention was to reinforce student safety, but the plan generated a wave of complaints when thousands of drivers were fined, even though they were legally traveling across a central median, which is allowed under Florida law.
This situation forced the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office to suspend the enforcement of fines last March.
A district audit revealed serious deficiencies in the design and implementation of the program, pointing out a lack of prior review and poor communication among the involved entities. It also criticized that the contract with BusPatrol, by generating revenue, bypassed the public bidding process.
The superintendent José Dotres urged caution before committing public funds to cover the costs of the appeals. Without police support, the program cannot be reactivated, warned Espino, who advocates for the creation of a specific fund to manage the income and expenses of the system.
Frequently Asked Questions about the School Bus Camera Program in Miami
Why was the school bus camera program in Miami suspended?
The program has been suspended due to technical failures, public criticism, and the lack of a clear mechanism for contesting fines. Additionally, an audit revealed serious deficiencies in its design and implementation, including the lack of prior review and poor communication among the entities involved.
What changes are proposed to reactivate the school bus camera program?
It is proposed to resume the initiative through a new virtual hearing system, managed by administrative judges in Tallahassee, to resolve pending challenges. Additionally, the creation of a specific fund to manage the revenues and expenditures of the system is suggested.
What is the original objective of the camera program on school buses?
The original objective of the program was to enhance student safety by issuing automatic fines to drivers who did not stop for the "stop" signs of public buses.
How are the revenues from the school bus fine program distributed?
Of the total revenue generated from the fines, 70% is allocated to the private company BusPatrol and 30% to the Miami-Dade school district.
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