By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a measure that adds a 7-day license suspension to the current $250 fine for not stopping for a school bus with flashing lights as children get on and off the bus.

According to the American School Bus Council, an estimated more than 10 million drivers illegally pass school buses every year. In addition, one-third of children who are killed outside the school bus are between five and seven years old; nearly two-thirds of bus related fatalities of school-age children occur outside the school bus; and passing vehicles are responsible for two-thirds of school bus loading and unloading fatalities.

Sponsor Rep. Susannah Whipps (I-Athol) did not respond to repeated requests by Beacon Hill Roll Call asking her to comment on why she filed the bill and how she feels about its initial approval.