Question: Did I hear something about a new law about stopping for school buses?

Answer: In March 2026, Minnesota law changed to require drivers to stop at least 20 feet away from a school bus whenever the red lights are flashing. The stop arm does not need to be fully extended. This new requirement aims to remove confusion and clarify expectations for every driver on the road.

What changed

In the past, some drivers waited until the stop arm was fully extended before stopping. That is no longer the case.

Now, the rule is simple:

When a school bus’s red lights begin flashing, you must stop — no exceptions — at least 20 feet away from the bus.

• This applies whether the stop arm is extended or not.

• This applies when approaching from behind the bus.

• This applies to oncoming traffic on undivided roads.

This change removes guesswork and helps protect students as they enter or exit the bus.

You can avoid a ticket — and a crash — if you simply buckle up, drive at safe speeds, pay attention and always drive sober. Help us drive Minnesota Toward Zero Deaths.

If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota send your questions to Sgt. Troy Christianson – Minnesota State Patrol at 2900 48th Street NW, Rochester, MN, 55901-5848, or reach him at Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us