Wisconsin school buses will begin using an 8-light system beginning August 16.

This is happening because of a state law passed this year. 

According to Ozaukee County Sheriff’s Office, most buses in Wisconsin will be switched to this new light system, depending on the model year of the school bus.

Many states adopted the eight-light system during the 1970s and 1980s. Wisconsin was the single remaining state to adopt this safety feature, which now goes into effect on August 16.

The 8-light system incorporates the use of amber lights. The amber lights will flash before the red lights as a 'warning' that the bus is preparing to stop, similar to a traffic light. The additional lights alert vehicles traveling around a school bus that they should prepare to stop.

As Wisconsin prepares for another school year, watch for school buses with amber and red lights flashing. They are preparing to stop or are stopped! It’s against the law to not stop for a school bus, but more importantly, our children are counting on you for their safety in getting to school and home.