MO HB1706

Transfers authority for safety rules and regulations of railroad employee transportation vehicles from the motor carrier and railroad safety division of the department of economic development to the state highways and transportation commission's division of multimodal operations.

Expands the definition of regulated vehicles to include those owned, used, leased, or contracted by railroads, and applies rules to all leased or contracted vehicles but only to railroad-owned vehicles acquired after 1985.

Establishes driver hour limitations for contract carriers transporting railroad employees in vehicles designed for fewer than 15 passengers, including maximum 10 hours driving after 8 consecutive hours off-duty, 15 hours maximum combined on-duty time, and 60 hours maximum on-duty time in any 7-day period.

Requires contract carriers to maintain accurate time records of driver reporting and release times, driving hours, and on-duty hours; conduct annual driving record reviews; and maintain driver qualification files including current licenses and biennial physical examination certificates.

Establishes misdemeanor penalties of up to one year imprisonment or fines not exceeding $500 for violations of safety rules and regulations or failure to comply with division orders.