MO HB1565

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

Exempts emergency vehicles, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and ambulance operators performing official duties, as well as drivers using hands-free devices or permanently affixed dispatch systems.

Allows hand-held device use to report illegal activity, summon emergency help, prevent injury, or communicate between transit operators and dispatchers if device is permanently affixed to vehicle.

Classifies violations as infractions and moving violations under point assessment rules in section 302.302.

Permits cities and counties to adopt equivalent ordinances but prohibits more restrictive regulations than state law; exempts parked vehicles, GPS/digital dispatch systems, voice-operated technology, and amateur radio use.