Bill > HF2736

This bill eliminates the mandatory $500 fine for drivers who fail to stop for a school bus when its stop-signal arm is extended, which previously was a required penalty for such violations. Under the proposed change, drivers who do not stop for a school bus will still be charged with a misdemeanor, and in more serious cases (such as attempting to pass the bus on the right side or passing when a child is on the street or sidewalk), they can be charged with a gross misdemeanor. By removing the mandatory fine language, the bill gives judges more discretion in determining appropriate penalties for school bus stop-signal arm violations, potentially allowing for alternative forms of punishment or consideration of specific circumstances. The underlying goal remains to protect school children by maintaining strict legal consequences for drivers who do not stop when school buses are loading or unloading students.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF2736&ssn=0&y=2025