Northern Iowa Schools Ask for Cameras for Buses

MASON CITY, Iowa (AP) — Officials say cameras are needed to help enforce an Iowa law that increased penalties for drivers who illegally pass by school buses whenever they're stopped.

Under the state law, commonly referred to as Kadyn's Law, driving privileges are suspended for 30 days for a first conviction. It increases to 90 days for a second conviction and 180 days for a third conviction.

The law was prompted by the 2011 death of 7-year-old Kadyn Halverson, who was hit by a vehicle as she crossed a rural road to board a school bus.

An administrator who oversees transportation at Mason City and Clear Lake schools says an exterior camera on the buses is needed to help identify more violators.

Mason City bus drivers say they still see an average of one illegal pass each week.