1. a. It shall be unlawful for the driver of a school bus, as defined in R.S.39:1-1, to use a cellular or other wireless telephone while operating the school bus.

   b.   The prohibition contained in subsection a. of this section shall not apply:

   (1)   when the school bus is parked in a safe area off of a highway; or

   (2)   in an emergency situation.

   c.   A person who violates this section shall be fined not less than $250 or more than $500.

   d.   No motor vehicle points or automobile insurance eligibility points pursuant to section 26 of P.L.1990, c.8 (C.17:33B-14) shall be assessed for this offense.

   L.2002,c.120.