MO HB857

Repeals and reenacts Section 70.441, RSMo, establishing rules and penalties for the Bi-State Development Agency's public mass transportation system.

Requires persons convicted, pleading guilty, or pleading nolo contendere for fare evasion to reimburse the agency for reasonable costs attributable to enforcement, investigation, and prosecution of the offense, in addition to unpaid fares and any imposed fines or sentences.

Establishes misdemeanor penalties for violations including fines of $25-$250 for first offense and $50-$500 for subsequent offenses, plus court costs and potential imprisonment up to 30 days for first offense or 60 days for repeat offenses.

Maintains existing prohibitions on fare evasion, unauthorized use of fare media, and various conduct violations on agency facilities and conveyances, including restrictions on weapons, explosives, alcohol, smoking, and unauthorized area access.

Directs court to order reimbursement proceeds to the appropriate agency official, with all judgment proceeds from unpaid fares or charges going to the agency.