04/29/2026
An updated law in Minnesota now requires drivers to stop when a school bus's stop arm is out, closing a dangerous loophole. Previously, the law required drivers to stop for a bus when its red flashing lights were on and the stop arm was extended. This created a situation in which some drivers might pass the bus when the lights were flashing but the stop arm wasn't fully extended. Effective immediately, when red lights are flashing, a vehicle must stop 20 feet away from the school bus whether the stop arm is extended or not.
Law enforcement will address questions on the change during a press conference at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, April 28, at Burnsville High School. In addition, a livestream of this event will be available on the DPS YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/live/dHD5blngpikl.