On Sunday, August 24, Fargo Police issued a reminder on social media that the fine for passing a stopped school bus in North Dakota has increased from $100 to $250. Authorities stress that student safety must be the top priority when buses are picking up or dropping off children.
“It’s very important; there are a lot of safety aspects that go into it with kids crossing the street. They don’t always look; they kind of just run across as soon as they get off the bus,” said Josh Hildebrand, Valley Bus Manager.
Fargo Police highlighted that flashing red lights and an extended stop sign on a bus mean all drivers must stop. Ignoring these signals creates a serious risk for children who may be crossing the road without checking for cars.
Some parents say they are worried. “Eighty percent of the week, I hear the loud honk, and it’s right outside my window, and so I look, and there’s a car blowing past the stop sign. And so, imagining my daughter or any kids walking home or going to school and people not paying attention just like the kids,” said Fargo mom Shayla Wirries.
According to city records, police have issued only two tickets so far this school year to drivers who unlawfully passed a bus. In 2024, 20 drivers were ticketed in Fargo for speeding in school zones with children present. That number has already been surpassed with 21 tickets in 2025 before September.
Fargo Police also encourages parents to talk with their children about safety. “We have to keep in mind that a lot of these are pretty young children. They may or may not remember. We also encourage parents, you know, that if they are home, if they can meet the kids at the bus stop to help ensure the safety of their children,” said Lieutenant Travis Moszer.
For more information on school bus and traffic safety, visit the North Dakota DOT Safety page.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
