09/02/2026
Important update! Minnesotaβs school bus stopping law has changed. ππ
You must stop at least 20 feet from a school bus whenever its RED lights are flashing β even if the stop arm hasnβt been extended yet.
π¨ On regular, undivided roads, traffic in BOTH directions must stop.
π¨ On divided roads with a median or barrier, only traffic on the same side of the median as the bus must stop.
π A first violation can result in a $500 fine, and illegally passing a school bus when a child is outside can lead to serious criminal charges.
π Back to School = A Quick Reminder for Our Neighbors
School is back, and so are the buses β making about 10,000 trips a day across Minnesota. ππ Keeping those rides safe is something we all have a role in.
π¨ One important update: Minnesotaβs school bus stopping law has changed.
You must stop at least 20 feet from a school bus whenever its RED lights are flashing β even if the stop arm hasnβt been extended yet.
Hereβs the quick rundown:
π On regular, undivided roads, traffic in BOTH directions must stop.
π On divided roads with a median or barrier, only traffic on the same side of the median as the bus must stop.
π° A first violation can result in a $500 fine, and illegally passing a school bus when a child is outside can lead to serious criminal charges.
But the real goal isnβt the fine or the law. Itβs making sure every child who gets on or off a school bus can count on the cars around them to stop.
So as the school year gets underway, please slow down, stay alert around school buses and bus stops, and give our kids a little extra space. π
Letβs work together to make sure every student gets to and from school safely. ππ