A BILL TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ENACTING THE "SCHOOL CROSSING GUARD PROTECTION AND CERTIFICATION ACT"; BY AMENDING SECTION 56-5-740, RELATING TO OBEDIENCE TO AUTHORIZED PERSONS DIRECTING TRAFFIC, SO AS TO PROVIDE THIS SECTION ALSO APPLIES TO CERTIFIED UNIFORMED ADULT SCHOOL CROSSING GUARDS, TO ESTABLISH A CERTIFIED UNIFORMED ADULT SCHOOL CROSSING GUARD PROGRAM; BY ADDING ARTICLE 49 TO CHAPTER 5, TITLE 56 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL TO ENDANGER OR INJURE A CERTIFIED UNIFORMED ADULT SCHOOL CROSSING GUARD, AND PROVIDE PENALTIES; AND BY AMENDING SECTION 56-1-720, RELATING TO THE SYSTEM ESTABLISHED TO ASSIGN POINTS AGAINST A PERSON'S DRIVING RECORD FOR VARIOUS MOTOR VEHICLE VIOLATIONS, SO AS TO PROVIDE ENDANGERMENT OF A CROSSING GUARD IS A FOUR-POINT VIOLATION.
Impact
By amending Section 56-5-740 of the South Carolina Code, the bill extends the definition of 'authorized persons' to include certified uniformed adult school crossing guards, establishing that they have lawful authority to direct traffic in school zones. This legislative change not only formalizes the role of crossing guards but also clarifies the necessity for motorists to comply with their directives, which is expected to improve overall school zone safety.
Summary
House Bill 4677, known as the 'School Crossing Guard Protection and Certification Act', aims to amend existing traffic laws in South Carolina to enhance the protection of school crossing guards. The bill establishes a Certified Uniformed Adult School Crossing Guard Program, which is authorized to ensure consistent and lawful traffic control in school zones. This program will require training, certification, and continuing education for crossing guards, thereby elevating their role in ensuring student safety during school commutes.
Contention
A notable point of contention arises from the bill's imposition of heightened criminal penalties for those who endanger or injure crossing guards while they perform their duties. The law categorizes violations leading to injury or death as either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the severity, and introduces significant fines and penalties, including license suspension. Opponents may argue that these penalties could lead to overcriminalization in traffic situations without sufficient education on safe driving practices in school zones.