MS HB293

Amends school bus stop laws to prohibit drivers from deviating from the roadway, street, or highway while children are boarding or exiting, in addition to existing requirements to stop at least 10 feet away with flashing red lights.

Increases penalties for first-time violations of school bus stop laws from a $350-$750 fine or up to one year imprisonment to a $750-$1,500 fine or up to one year imprisonment, plus a mandatory 90-day driver's license suspension for second or subsequent offenses within five years.

Creates new aggravated assault charge for any driver who injures or causes death to a child boarding or exiting a school bus in violation of school bus laws, with mandatory minimum sentence of at least five years and maximum of 20 years imprisonment, named the "Amiya Braxton Amendment."

Changes aggravated assault sentencing requirements from minimum of one year to minimum of five years imprisonment for school bus-related child injuries.

Effective July 1, 2024.