CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV) - It has been estimated that North Carolina owes school districts around $750 million. When traffic fines were established a long time ago, most of the money was supposed to help fund schools, but that didn't happen. Lawmakers now want to make a wrong right by introducing House Bill 145.
It would set up speed cameras along highways and school zones.
"A lot of times I pick my son up from the school," CMS Parent Terry Morant said. "And some drivers come through here and it's like WOW, it's a school zone. Why aren't they slowing down?"
If caught the fine could go up to $250. Most of the money would go to help pay what the state owes school districts. The rest of it will help fund driver education programs. If passed the school districts could really use the money.
"You're cutting a lot of teachers," the parent said. "And I'm wondering how you expect the kids to learn if you are cutting teachers. One teacher to 35 kids, that's ridiculous."
Lawmakers think it will take about 15 years for the state to pay its debt to the school districts.
The bill was introduced Monday. It has three committees to go through before going to the House floor for debate.
If approved the bill could become law in October