HB229 Alabama 2012 Session

Updated Feb 27, 2026

Notable

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Joe Hubbard
Democrat
Session: Regular Session 2012
Title: School bus drivers, use of electronic device, mobile telephone, cellular telephone prohibited while operating school bus, penalties (2011-20256)
Summary: HB229 would ban school bus drivers from using cell phones or related technology while driving, with penalties and emergency exceptions.
What This Bill Does
If enacted, it would prohibit a school bus driver from using a mobile telephone or related technology while the bus is in motion, with an exception when the bus is parked safely and secured. It defines key terms like mobile telephone, additional technology, and emergency situations, and allows use only for emergencies or while the bus is stationary. Violations would be Class C misdemeanors with fines up to $500 and up to 2 points on the driver's license, and repeat offenses could lead to suspension or revocation of the driver’s school bus certificate by state education officials. The bill also prohibits local governments from enacting ordinances regulating bus driver cellphone use and would take effect immediately after passage.

Who It Affects
School bus drivers would be prohibited from using cell phones or related technology while the bus is moving, face penalties if they violate the rule, and risk suspension or revocation of their bus driver certificates for repeat offenses.
Local governments and school districts would be restricted from passing ordinances regulating bus driver cellphone use, with enforcement and driver certificate actions handled by state education authorities.

Key Provisions
Defines key terms: additional technology, emergency situation, mobile telephone, and school bus.
Prohibits operating a school bus while using a mobile telephone or related technology when the bus is in motion; allows use only when the bus is stationary and secured in a safe area.
Emergency communication is permitted; no seizure of devices unless allowed by law.
Local governments cannot regulate bus driver cellphone use by ordinance.
Violations are Class C misdemeanors with fines up to $500 and up to 2 license points per offense; repeat offenses can lead to suspension or revocation of the bus driver certificate by the State Superintendent of Education.
The act is considered a new crime or amendment to existing crime for constitutional purposes, and becomes effective immediately upon passage.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Education Department