Police in Centre County said too many drivers are putting kids at risk.
Olivia Lewis is a mom of three, her two girls walk to school and her son rides the bus.
“My biggest concern is definitely their safety,” Lewis said.
But Ferguson Township Police warns their safety is at risk because of distracted drivers.
In a recent report, the number of school bus violations and incidents called in by local bus drivers has doubled.
For the 2015-2016 school year that number was 49.
For 2016-2017, it’s gone up to 97.
“There’s way too many for such a small school district and a small living area,” Lewis said.
Police said it’s an issue for the entire State College Area School District.
In response Chris Rosenblum, SCASD Communications Director, said it’s unfortunate, but not necessarily a big surprise
“More drivers who break the law and endanger children are being caught because of the cameras we installed in all of our buses last year. We urge everyone to obey flashing lights and not pass stopped buses. Let’s drop the number of violations in Ferguson Township and elsewhere to zero,” Rosenblum said.
And if a camera doesn’t make you think twice–the fines might.
Ferguson Township Police say any driver that meets or passes a stopped school bus faces a $500 fee and a 60 day license suspension.
“This is our precious cargo that they’re transporting and they need to make an extra effort to remain present, in the moment, and conscious of what is going on around them,” Lewis said.
Police said some of the biggest distractions reported have been using a cell phone, applying make up, and even reading newspapers.