Governor Kemp Signs Addy’s Law to Improve School Bus Safety

Governor Kemp signed Addy’s Law during a bill signing in Atlanta on April 23, 2024. Members of the Pierce family joined him for the occasion.

Addy’s Law, in memory of eight-year-old Adalynn Pierce, strives to improve school bus safety at bus stops. It raises the fine for motorists who pass a stopped school bus. The law also encourages school districts to minimize stops where students have to cross the road.

Governor Signs Addy’s Law

House Bill 409, known as Addy’s Law, took effect upon the governor’s signature. It contains the following:

• school districts are encouraged to consider bus stops where students do not have to cross the road, when the speed limit is 40 mph or greater,
• changes the criminal offense of passing a stopped school bus, when observed by a police officer, from a misdemeanor to a high and aggravated misdemeanor; this changes the fine from $250 to $1,000, and a possible jail sentence of up to 12 months, or both;
• increases the civil fine for passing a stopped school bus, when observed by an automated camera on the side of the bus, from $250 to $1,000; and
• permits law enforcement to notify a driver’s insurance company upon a second or subsequent occurrence of passing a stopped school bus.

State Rep. Lauren Daniel of Locust Grove sponsored the bill. After the governor’s bill signing, she shared her thoughts:

“Today marked a pivotal milestone in Georgia’s dedication to prioritizing the safety of our young students and honoring the memory of a precious little girl. Addy’s Law represents a crucial stride in our commitment to protecting Georgia’s children, and I am profoundly grateful to Governor Kemp and my legislative colleagues for their support. It is my hope that this new law will prevent another family from having to experience what the Pierce family and our community experienced with Addy’s tragic and preventable loss.” 

Rep. Daniel introduced the measure during the recent 2024 legislative session. The bill passed the house by a vote of 93–78. It passed the senate 49–3. Senator Rick Williams of Milledgeville carried the measure in the state senate.

Featured image shows Governor Kemp and members of the Pierce family at the bill signing on April 23, 2024. Clayton Carte photo.