Tuesday, July 30, 2024–9:10 p.m.

-Staff reports-

Students in the Rome City School System head back to class from summer vacation on Friday, and the Rome Police Department is reminding the public about Georgia’s new enhanced school bus law.

While unlawfully passing a school bus in Georgia was previously charged as a misdemeanor, as of July 1, 2024, it has been elevated to a high and aggravated misdemeanor – with significant consequences.

Penalties for unlawfully passing a school bus now include 12 months in jail or on probation, at least $1000 in fines, community service, defensive driving school, and any other conditions a judge believes will correct the driver’s behavior.

In addition, high and aggravated misdemeanors mean that any jail time will not count for 2 for 1 credit.