MO HB524

Prohibits drivers aged 21 and younger from sending, reading, or writing text or electronic messages on hand-held devices while operating a moving motor vehicle, unless using voice-recognition hands-free texting technology.

Exempts authorized emergency vehicles and allows hand-held device use for reporting illegal activity, summoning emergency help, preventing injury, or relaying information between transit/for-hire operators and dispatchers with permanently affixed devices.

Permits telephone calls (listening and verbal communication) and does not apply to parked or stopped vehicles, law enforcement/fire/ambulance operators in official duties, GPS devices, voice-operated technology, or amateur radio transmitters.

Classifies violations as infractions and moving violations for point assessment under existing traffic violation rules.

Preempts local regulations; supersedes any county, municipality, or political subdivision ordinances regarding hand-held electronic wireless communication device use while operating a motor vehicle.