School Bus Safety

“The School Bus Safety Task Force was created by Nathan’s Law and with the support of Gov. Phi Bryant.  The mission of this task force is to help make traveling to and from school safer for our students in the state of Mississippi.  There is no greater responsibility in our educational system than the safety of our students. I am proud of the work of the task force and appreciate the support of the legislature and our Governor in this important process.”  Dr. Ben Burnett, Chairman of MS School Bus Safety Task Force.

School bus safety is a top priority in Mississippi.  The Mississippi Legislature passed Nathan’s Law as a proactive strategy to protect our most valuable resource- children.

Nathan’s Law-

• 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.
• Authorizes 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.
• Authorizes cameras be equipped on school bus stop arms to film perpetrators in the act.
• Required the development of at least 10 questions relating to school bus safety on a driver’s license test.
• Established a School Bus Safety Task Force.
• Prohibits 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.
• Increases the fine for passing a stopped school bus.

National School Bus Safety week is held during the third full week of October each year. The 2024-2025 them is “Driving Safely Into the Future.”

National School Bus Safety Week is an active and evolving public education program and an excellent way for parents, students, teachers, motorists, school bus operators, school administrators, and other interested parties – to join forces and address the importance of school bus safety. Designed to promote school bus safety, school districts throughout the country observe School Bus Safety Week.

School Bus Safety Resources

• School Bus Safety Activity Book
• School Bus Safety Tips for Parents
• The following informational video are about school bus safety, including a public service announcement for your use.