08/28/2026
PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT
New Penalties for Failing to Stop for a School Bus
Effective August 28, 2026, new penalties will take effect for motorists who fail to stop for a school bus that is receiving or discharging students.
The new law substantially increases the consequences for drivers who fail to stop when required. These changes are intended to emphasize the seriousness of school bus safety and help protect students as they enter and exit school buses.
Under the new law:
• A conviction will result in five (5) points being assessed against the driver's license. Accumulating eight (8) points within an 18-month period can result in the suspension of a driver's license.
• First Offense: A fine of $500 to $1,000 may be imposed. The court may also order a driver's license suspension. The driver will receive five (5) points on their license.
• Second Offense: If the second offense occurs within five years of the first offense, the driver will receive five (5) points, face a fine of $1,000 to $2,000, and be subject to a mandatory 90-day driver's license suspension by the Missouri Department of Revenue.
• Third or Subsequent Offense: If the violation occurs within five years of a prior violation, the driver will receive five (5) points, face a fine of $1,500 to $3,000, and be subject to a mandatory 180-day driver's license suspension by the Missouri Department of Revenue.
• If the violation results in physical injury, the consequences become significantly more serious. Depending on the severity of the injury, the offense may be classified as a Class E felony, punishable by up to four years of imprisonment, or a Class D felony when serious physical injury occurs, punishable by up to seven years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $10,000.
• These offenses will not be able to be disposed of through the state fine collection center or by payment of a fine without an appearance in open court. The defendant shall appear in person or by attorney for disposition.
PLEASE SLOW DOWN AND STOP
School buses make frequent stops to safely transport children to and from school. When a school bus is stopped and receiving or discharging students, drivers are reminded to pay close attention, obey all traffic laws, and stop when required.
A moment of impatience or distraction can have life-changing consequences for a child.
Please help us keep our children safe.
When the school bus stops, YOU STOP!