Missouri drivers could lose their license for passing stopped school buses under new bill

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

MISSOURI (KBSI) – Missouri drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses could soon face steeper penalties under a public safety bill passed by state lawmakers in the final days of the legislative session.

The legislation, House Bill 2742, now heads to Gov. Mike Kehoe’s desk for consideration.

The bill includes tougher penalties for drivers who fail to stop for school buses that are loading or unloading children. Supporters of the measure said the changes are aimed at improving safety for students entering and exiting buses.

Under current Missouri law, illegally passing a stopped school bus is generally considered a Class A misdemeanor. The offense can be elevated to a felony if a child is injured or killed.

The proposed legislation would add mandatory fines and stricter driver’s license penalties for stop-arm violations. The bill would also allow school districts to install camera systems on buses to help identify drivers accused of violating the law.

Lawmakers included the school bus provision as part of a broader public safety package approved before the end of the session.

The measure was approved by both chambers and awaits the governor’s signature.