PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 13, 2026

Wisconsin Illegal School Bus Passing Sees Further Decline to 21% in 2026

Thank you to the school districts and transportation companies that participated in this critical one-day survey. There were more drivers who participated this year providing greater oversight of the issue. In 2025, Wisconsin saw a slight decrease in the illegal school bus passing rate, and after receiving data for 2026, the passing rate has shown further reduction, headed in the right direction. The 2026 average illegal passing rate is now 21%, showing improvement from 2025 when it was 35%.​

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Of the 1,200 Wisconsin school bus driver reports this year, a total of 258 illegal passes were observed in one day, which brings the average illegal passing rate to 21%. Adjusting for 100% of Wisconsin licensed school bus drivers, the annual school year impact is at least 466,074 illegal passes in a 180-day school year. These occurrences happen in the morning 55% of the time. The majority of vehicles pass the school bus stop sign as they approach the bus head on.  WSBA is pleased to see the numbers decreasing, however the goal is zero and there remains no excuse for endangering children’s lives.

The annual school year impact in Wisconsin is at least 466,074 illegal passes!

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Pay Attention and              for the Stopped School Bus with Red Lights Flashing