New school bus safety law now in effect in Minnesota

A new Minnesota school bus safety law went into effect this month to close a dangerous loophole that had left students at risk during bus stops.

The new law requires drivers to stop at least 20 feet away from a school bus the moment its red lights begin flashing, regardless of whether the stop arm is fully extended. Previously, Minnesota law required a driver to stop only when both the red lights were flashing and the stop arm was fully extended. A 2025 Minnesota Court of Appeals ruling found that “extended” meant the arm had to be fully stretched out, which created a gap in enforcement.

Flashing amber lights now serve as a warning that the bus will soon stop and flash red lights, giving drivers time to prepare to stop. Drivers must not move until the stop arm is retracted and the red lights stop flashing. The obligation to stop is triggered by the flashing red lights, not just the stop arm.

Violations will be enforced as a misdemeanor with a minimum fine of $500. The Minnesota Department of Transportation says the change will create a safer environment for children boarding and exiting buses by eliminating the “near-miss” risk of passing just as red lights start.