The New “No Loophole” Minnesota School Bus Law You Might Have Missed

Huge shout-out to all the school bus drivers out there who work hard every day to keep our kids safe. Seriously, I lose my mind when my two kids are just bickering in the backseat of my car, I cannot imagine dealing with a busload of them.

Bus drivers have to manage that circus of hyper kids, stay focused, and get everyone to and from school safely. You can help by being extra cautious when you're driving near busses. Traffic laws are pretty straightforward when it comes to school buses, but a major change went into effect this past March that you might have missed.

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The Major Minnesota School Bus Law Change You Might Have Missed This Spring

If you drive anywhere in Minnesota, you need to change how you react to a stopped school bus immediately.

A change to Minnesota state law went into effect this spring (March 2026), and it completely eliminates a common misunderstanding that used to put kids at risk.

Here is exactly what changed, what it means for your morning commute, and why the state is cracking down.

The New Minnesota School Bus Law: No More "Stop Arm" Guesswork

In the past, many drivers mistakenly waited until a school bus's stop arm was fully extended before bringing their vehicle to a halt. That loophole is officially gone.

Sgt. Troy Christianson of the Minnesota State Patrol explains the new rule below.

• The moment a school bus’s red lights begin flashing, you must stop.
• You are now legally required to stop at least 20 feet away from the bus the second those red lights activate.
• It does not matter if the stop arm is still tucked in or only halfway out.

This applies if you are approaching a bus from behind. This also applies to oncoming traffic on all undivided, two-lane roads. The only time you do not have to stop is if you are traveling in the opposite direction on a physically divided highway (separated by a median or barrier).

Minnesota law enforcement is enforcing this law now. If you pass a school bus when those red lights are flashing, you aren't getting a warning.

A violation carries an automatic fine of at least $500. You will face severe criminal charges if you pass a bus on the right side, pass while a child is outside, or cause an injury or fatality.