MS HB540

Named the "Amiya Braxton Amendment," this legislation increases the minimum sentence for injuring a child boarding or exiting a school bus from one year to five years imprisonment, with a maximum of 20 years

Drivers must stop at least 10 feet from a stopped school bus with flashing red lights and cannot proceed or deviate from the roadway until children have crossed and the bus resumes motion

First-time violations for passing a stopped school bus carry fines of $350-$750 and up to one year imprisonment; second offenses within five years carry fines of $750-$1,500 plus a 90-day license suspension

Violations resulting in injury or death to a child boarding or exiting a school bus are classified as aggravated assault under Mississippi law

The bill takes effect July 1, 2026