SF737 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))
Mandatory fines enactment for violations of the school bus stop arm law
Related bill: HF1950
AI Generated Summary
This legislative bill, SF No. 737, proposes stricter penalties for drivers who violate the school bus stop arm law in Minnesota. It suggests the following changes:
If a driver fails to stop for a school bus when the stop arm is extended, as required by law, they will be fined:
- A minimum of $500 for the first offense.
- A minimum of $700 if they committed the same violation within ten years of a prior offense.
- A minimum of $950 if they have two or more prior violations within ten years.
If a driver not only fails to stop but also passes the school bus on the side where children enter and exit, or passes while a child is near the school bus on the street, they will be charged with a gross misdemeanor, which is a more serious offense.
Overall, the bill aims to increase safety for children around school buses by imposing tougher penalties on violators.
Bill text versions
- Introduction PDF file
Actions
| Date | Chamber | Where | Type | Name | Committee Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January 26, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Introduction and first reading | |
| January 26, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Referred to | Transportation |
| February 05, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Comm report: To pass and re-referred to | Judiciary and Public Safety |
Citations
[
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Imposes higher fines for repeat offenses."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "This bill enhances penalties for violations of the school bus stop arm law under section 169.444.",
"modified": [
"Revises the fine amounts for violations within a defined timeframe for prior offenses."
]
},
"citation": "169.444"
}
]