SB313 Alabama 2011 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Gerald H. AllenSenator

Republican

Co-Sponsors

J.T. WaggonerTrip PittmanHarri Anne SmithDick BrewbakerPaul BussmanPhillip W. WilliamsGerald O. Dial

Session

Regular Session 2011

Title

School bus drivers, use of electronic device, mobile telephone, cellular telephone prohibited while operating school bus, penalties

Summary

SB313 would ban school bus drivers from using cell phones and related technology while the bus is moving, with penalties and possible driver certificate suspension.

What This Bill Does

It prohibits a school bus driver from using a mobile telephone or related technology when the bus is in motion, with an exception if the bus is parked in a safe area. It defines what counts as a mobile telephone and related technology, and sets penalties for violations (Class C misdemeanor, up to $500 fine and up to 2 license points). Repeat offenses could lead to suspension or revocation of the driver's school bus certificate by the State Superintendent of Education; local governments cannot pass ordinances regulating this issue; the law takes effect immediately after governor's approval.

Who It Affects

• School bus drivers (employed by public, private, or parochial schools or districts) who would be prohibited from using mobile phones while the bus is moving and could face fines, points on their license, and potential certificate suspension for repeats.
• Local governments and school districts (they are prohibited from enacting ordinances regulating bus driver phone use) and the State Department of Education/State Superintendent (they would enforce penalties and suspend/revoke certificates).

Key Provisions

• Prohibits operating a school bus using a mobile telephone or related technology while in motion; exception for uses when the bus is parked in a safe area.
• Defines mobile telephone and related terms, including hands-free use and two-way radios, and sets emergency-use allowances.
• Class C misdemeanor with fine up to $500 and up to 2 license points per offense; repeat offenses can lead to suspension or revocation of the driver certificate by the State Superintendent of Education.
• Local governments may not pass ordinances regulating this use by school bus operators.
• Immediate effective date after governor's approval; defines related compliance and enforcement under the State Department of Education rules.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 25, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Education Department