In terms of vehicular offenses, what classification is given to illegally passing a stopped school bus?

Illegally passing a stopped school bus is classified as a gross misdemeanor under Minnesota law. This classification reflects the serious nature of the offense, given the potential danger to children who may be getting on or off the bus. Passing a stopped school bus not only violates traffic safety laws but also endangers the lives of students, warranting a stricter penalty than a misdemeanor, which is typically reserved for less severe offenses. The classification as a gross misdemeanor allows for more significant consequences, including higher fines and the possibility of jail time, thereby emphasizing the importance of adhering to traffic laws that protect vulnerable populations like schoolchildren.