Governor Brian Kemp has signed ‘Addy’s Law.’
House Bill 409, named Addy’s Law in honor of 8-year-old Adalynn Pierce, was brought by Representative Lauren Daniel of Locust Grove during the most recent legislative session. Pierce was killed while crossing the road to board her school bus.
Addy’s Law mandates public school systems to prioritize bus routes that avoid students crossing roadways with a speed limit exceeding 40 miles per hour. The law also introduces harsher penalties for passing a stopped school bus picking up children, making it a high and aggravated misdemeanor with a fine of at least $1,000 as well as possible confinement of at least 12 months upon conviction. The bill will also send the tag information to the owner’s insurance carrier if more than one violation occurs.
Addy’s family, present at the signing, conveyed their appreciation to the initiative in pushing forward this legislation.
“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,” said Rep. Daniel. “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.”
