MO HB1430

Prohibits persons 21 years of age or younger from sending, reading, or writing text messages or electronic messages while operating a moving motor vehicle using hand-held devices, unless the device uses voice-recognition hands-free technology.

Exempts authorized emergency vehicles and allows hand-held device use while moving to report illegal activity, summon emergency help, prevent injury, or relay dispatcher information with permanently affixed devices.

Does not restrict making or receiving telephone calls, and excludes parked/stopped vehicles, law enforcement/fire/ambulance personnel performing duties, GPS devices, voice-operated technology, and amateur radio transmitters.

Classifies violations as infractions and moving violations subject to point assessment under section 302.302, RSMo.

State preempts regulation of hand-held wireless device use, superseding any local laws or ordinances enacted by counties, municipalities, or political subdivisions.