The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 169.444, subdivision 2, to impose mandatory fines for violations of the school bus stop arm law. It establishes a tiered penalty system for drivers who fail to stop for a school bus, with fines set at a minimum of $700 for violations occurring within ten years of a prior offense, and $950 for violations occurring within ten years of two or more prior offenses. Additionally, the bill specifies that a person can be charged with a gross misdemeanor for more severe violations, such as passing a school bus on the right side or when a child is present on the street or sidewalk.

The bill also includes an effective date, stating that the new provisions will take effect on August 1, 2025, and will apply to violations occurring on or after that date. This legislative change aims to enhance the safety of children around school buses by imposing stricter penalties for non-compliance with the stop arm law.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 169.444