Miami-Dade schools launch audit into controversial school bus safety program
By Natalie La Roche Pietri
May 15, 2025 at 10:03 AM EDT
The Miami-Dade County school board has approved an independent audit of the district’s school bus safety program.
The program has drawn controversy and criticism after law-abiding drivers were ticketed. Cameras on the side of the buses are meant to catch drivers who ignore the bus "stop" signs when students are getting on and off the bus.
“While the original intent of this initiative was to enhance student safety using advanced technology, recent developments have raised valid concerns that must be addressed head-on,” said board member Roberto Alonso, who introduced the measure, at Wednesday's meeting. “We owe it to our families, students and school personnel to ensure that this program is functioning legally, ethically, and effectively.”
Officials paused the program indefinitely over its apparent dysfunction.
Board members said they support the technology but agreed on the need to investigate where the faults lie.
Under state law, bus 'stop' sign violations result in a $200 civil fine and may be managed through third-party vendors who administer detection systems.
READ MORE: South Dade's bus rapid transit ready to launch this summer
The audit will evaluate the program’s effectiveness and determine whether it aligns with its stated public safety goals. The review will also explore the potential impact of any recent or upcoming legal changes that come from possible tweaks to the program.
“We have heard from parents, educators, and community leaders. Now it’s time for action," Alonso said. "A thorough audit will allow us to move forward with clarity, confidence, and a renewed commitment to doing what’s right.”
This is a News In Brief report. Visit WLRN News for in-depth reporting from South Florida and Florida news.
The program has drawn controversy and criticism after law-abiding drivers were ticketed. Cameras on the side of the buses are meant to catch drivers who ignore the bus "stop" signs when students are getting on and off the bus.
“While the original intent of this initiative was to enhance student safety using advanced technology, recent developments have raised valid concerns that must be addressed head-on,” said board member Roberto Alonso, who introduced the measure, at Wednesday's meeting. “We owe it to our families, students and school personnel to ensure that this program is functioning legally, ethically, and effectively.”
Officials paused the program indefinitely over its apparent dysfunction.
Board members said they support the technology but agreed on the need to investigate where the faults lie.
Under state law, bus 'stop' sign violations result in a $200 civil fine and may be managed through third-party vendors who administer detection systems.
READ MORE: South Dade's bus rapid transit ready to launch this summer
The audit will evaluate the program’s effectiveness and determine whether it aligns with its stated public safety goals. The review will also explore the potential impact of any recent or upcoming legal changes that come from possible tweaks to the program.
“We have heard from parents, educators, and community leaders. Now it’s time for action," Alonso said. "A thorough audit will allow us to move forward with clarity, confidence, and a renewed commitment to doing what’s right.”
This is a News In Brief report. Visit WLRN News for in-depth reporting from South Florida and Florida news.