A new school bus safety program launched this week in Stratford that will warn drivers when they have illegally passed a bus. Officials say it's part of an effort to enhance student safety and address illegal school bus passings. Officials add that 63 buses in the town's fleet are equipped with advanced stop-arm safety technology which identify vehicles that illegally pass a stopped bus. The warning period will run through April 12. The first tickets will be issued the next day. Police will review the footage before a citation is given out. The minimum penalty for a first time offense is $250 and drivers will not receive any points on their license. Neighboring Bridgeport along with Shelton have launched similar programs.