RELEASE: Rep. Allen's Bill to Strengthen School Bus Safety Passes House, Heads to Governor

Rep. Allen's Bill to Strengthen School Bus Safety Passes House, Heads to Governor

St. Paul, MN — Legislation authored by Rep. Keith Allen to close a dangerous loophole in student transportation safety passed the Minnesota House this afternoon with a commanding 133 - 0 vote. The bill is the first of the session that has passed both chambers and will therefore be sent to the governor’s desk to be signed into law. 

The bill updates state law to require vehicles to stop for a school bus once its red lights begin flashing, closing a previously allowed loophole that inadvertently protected reckless drivers and put students at risk. This change ensures clearer expectations for drivers and stronger protections for students as they get on and off the bus.

“This is a straightforward fix to a serious safety issue,” said Rep. Allen. “Students should never be put at risk on their way to school because of a gap in the law. This bill makes sure drivers know exactly when they need to stop and helps keep kids safe.”

With final passage secured, SF3623 now awaits the governor’s signature and will take effect as law, marking a step forward in prioritizing student safety this legislative session.

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