MO HB869

Prohibits drivers who receive compensation for transporting passengers from using hand-held electronic devices to send, read, or write text or electronic messages, or to make or take part in telephone calls while operating a moving vehicle.

Exempts authorized emergency vehicles and allows hand-held device use for reporting illegal activity, summoning emergency help, preventing injury, or relaying information between transit operators and dispatchers (if device is permanently affixed).

Permits hands-free phone calls and use of permanently embedded vehicle communication devices, GPS systems, voice-operated technology, and amateur radio transmitters.

Violations classified as infractions and moving violations subject to point assessment under Missouri traffic law; allows cities and counties to adopt equivalent but not more restrictive ordinances.

Does not apply to parked or stopped vehicles, law enforcement officers, fire department members, or ambulance operators performing official duties.