Rhode Island § 31-51-2 - School Bus Safety Enforcement
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 31-51-2 — School Bus Safety Enforcement, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31-51-2. School Bus Safety Enforcement
R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-51-2
§ 31-51-2. Live digital video school bus violation detection monitoring systems.
(a) All school departments of this state are hereby authorized to install and operate live digital video school bus violation detection monitoring systems. Such systems shall, at a minimum, be systems which monitor and detect school bus traffic violations. For purposes of this chapter a live digital video school bus violation detection monitoring system means a system with one or more camera sensors and computers which produce live digital and recorded video of motor vehicles being operated in violation of school bus traffic laws in violation of § 31-20-12. All systems installed for use under this chapter shall, at a minimum, produce a live visual image viewable remotely, a recorded image of the license plate, and be able to record the time, date, and location of the vehicle, and a signed affidavit by a person who witnessed the violation via live video.
(b) On and after July 1, 2027, all new school buses to be operated pursuant to § 31-20-11(a) shall be equipped with a live digital video school bus violation detection monitoring system that conforms with the requirements of subsection (a) of this section.
(c) On and after July 1, 2032, all school buses to be operated pursuant to § 31-20-11(a) shall be equipped with a live digital video school bus violation detection monitoring system that conforms with the requirements of subsection (a) of this section.
(d) The school departments with input and approval by the municipal police chief may enter into an agreement with a private corporation or other entity to provide live digital video school bus violation detection monitoring systems and to maintain and operate such systems.
History of Section.
P.L. 2008, ch. 118, § 1; P.L. 2011, ch. 105, § 1; P.L. 2011, ch. 107, § 1; P.L. 2025,
ch. 253, § 1, effective June 26, 2025; P.L. 2025, ch. 254, § 1, effective June 26,
2025.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 31-51-2
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 31-51-2 cover?
Section 31-51-2 ("School Bus Safety Enforcement") is part of the Rhode Island General Laws, the codified statutory law of Rhode Island. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Rhode Island § 31-51-2?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 31-51-2" (Rhode Island). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Rhode Island law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Rhode Island official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Rhode Island attorney.
How does Rhode Island § 31-51-2 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Rhode Island can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Rhode Island.