MO HB317

Prohibits persons age 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 while moving to report illegal activity, summon emergency help, prevent injury, or relay information in for-hire operations with permanently affixed devices.

Permits all drivers to make or receive telephone calls using hand-held devices; exempts parked vehicles, law enforcement and emergency personnel performing official duties, GPS devices, voice-operated technology, and amateur radio operators.

Prohibits law enforcement from stopping, inspecting, or detaining drivers solely to determine compliance with this section.

Classifies violations as infractions and moving violations under point assessment rules; preempts all local ordinances regulating hand-held device use in motor vehicles.