Georgia State Law - Addy's Law

The 2025–2026 school year officially begins, and we are thrilled to welcome back our students, families, teachers, and staff. As buses roll through neighborhoods and classrooms fill with eager learners, we’re looking forward to a fresh start filled with opportunity and growth.

A Safety Reminder: Addy's Law is Now in Effect

With the return of school also comes an important reminder about school bus safety. In May 2024, Georgia enacted Addy’s Law to help protect children as they travel to and from school. This law establishes a minimum $1,000 fine for any motorist who illegally passes a stopped school bus.

Please review the guidelines below to ensure you're in compliance and helping keep our students safe:

When to Stop for a School Bus:

• 🚍 Two-Lane Roads
  All vehicles traveling in both directions must stop.

• 🚍 Multi-Lane Roads (paved across)
  All vehicles traveling in both directions must stop.

• 🚍 Divided Highways (with a grass, dirt, or barrier median)
  Only vehicles traveling behind the bus must stop.
  Vehicles traveling in the opposite direction must proceed with caution.

Effingham County buses are now equipped with stop-arm cameras to record violations. If a vehicle is detected passing a stopped bus illegally, the motorist will be fined a minimum of $1,000.

Let’s all do our part to make this school year a safe and successful one for every student in Effingham County. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our schools and community.