As pupils will soon return to the classroom across the Magnolia State, law enforcement officials are reminding drivers to observe special laws when school buses are operating on roadways.
Nathan’s Law, which was passed by the state legislature in 2011, requires motorists to stop at least 10 feet from a school bus when the bus is loading or unloading children. Motorists must not proceed until all children have crossed the street to or from the school bus, the flashing red lights are no longer activated, and the stop sign on the side of the bus is retracted.
In addition, state regulations also:
- Authorize a charge of felony assault and a prison sentence of up to 20 years for motorists convicted of illegally passing a school bus that, in the process, results in injury or death.
- Authorize cameras to be equipped on school bus stop arms to film perpetrators in the act.
- Require the development of at least 10 questions relating to school bus safety on a driver’s license test.
- Establish a School Bus Safety Task Force.
- Prohibit school bus drivers from using cell phones, wireless communication devices, vehicle navigation systems, or “personal digital assistants” while operating the bus, except in an emergency.
- Increase the fine for passing a stopped school bus.
More information on Mississippi’s school bus safety laws can be found here.
