MO HB1276

Prohibits persons aged 21 and younger from sending, reading, or writing text messages or electronic messages using hand-held devices while operating a moving motor vehicle on Missouri highways.

Exempts authorized emergency vehicles and allows hand-held device use for reporting illegal activity, summoning emergency help, preventing injury, or relaying information between transit/for-hire operators and dispatchers.

Does not restrict making or receiving telephone calls, and exempts devices permanently embedded in vehicle architecture, voice-operated technology, GPS systems, and two-way radio transmitters.

Violations are classified as infractions and moving violations under Missouri's point assessment system.

Preempts local and municipal regulations on hand-held wireless device use by motor vehicle operators, establishing statewide uniformity.