Michigan School Bus Safety Proposal, Saginaw Road Closure and Mid-Michigan Sports

Michigan Lawmaker Proposes Tougher Penalties for Passing Stopped School Buses

A new legislative package in Michigan aims to improve school bus safety by increasing penalties for drivers who illegally pass a stopped school bus.

State Representative Parker Fairbairn of Harbor Springs has introduced a proposal that would raise fines from the current range of $100 to $500 to between $500 and $1,000.

The legislation would also increase the required stopping distance from 20 feet to 50 feet.

The package must still be approved by the Michigan Legislature before any changes can take effect.

Railroad Crossing Repairs to Close Washington Avenue in Saginaw

Drivers in Saginaw should plan for a road closure beginning today.

Contractors working for Huron and Eastern Railway will close Washington Avenue at Emerson Street to make repairs to the railroad crossing.

Crews expect the road to reopen Friday. Drivers should allow extra time and consider alternate routes while the work is underway.

Weekend Protests in France Turn Violent

Protests over rising living costs and declining public services turned violent in France over the weekend, with more than 500,000 people reportedly taking to the streets.

Supermarkets were looted, and police officers and vehicles were attacked. Officers used tear gas to control crowds during what was described as the country's worst unrest in years.

The demonstrations reflect growing frustration over the cost of living and concerns about public services.

Sports: Packers Win, Saginaw Spirit Fall at Home

In football, the Green Bay Packers defeated the Dallas Cowboys 23-13 Sunday night.

In Ontario Hockey League action, the Saginaw Spirit lost to the Owen Sound Attack 2-1 on home ice Sunday.

Meanwhile, in an exhibition basketball matchup, the Central Michigan Chippewas defeated the Saginaw Valley State University Cardinals 99-62.

Mid-Michigan Weather: Sunshine Returns

Mid-Michigan is looking at several days of pleasant fall weather.

• Monday: Sunshine with a high near 67 degrees.

• Monday night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 44.

• Tuesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 67.

• Wednesday: Sunny, with a high near 66.