Jerauld County Sheriff Jason Weber is again reminding motorists to stop for flashing red school bus lights after drivers have been reported failing to stop for buses in Wessington Springs since school began.
Under a law passed last year, the consequences for offenders are more serious.
South Dakota lawmakers increased improperly passing a stopped school bus from a Class 2 to a Class 1 misdemeanor in 2025.
“This isn't just a ticket you pay and move on from,” Weber said. “It's a Class 1 misdemeanor now. You're going to have to answer to a judge.”
Under SDCL 32-32-6, motorists approaching a school bus with its red signal lights flashing must come to a complete stop at least 15 feet from the bus and remain stopped until the flashing lights are extinguished.
Weber said motorists need to take the law seriously, particularly because children may be entering or crossing the roadway.
“The safety of kids in our communities is paramount — we all want to prevent the unthinkable — and motorists need to realize that they play a big role in that,” Weber said.