MO HB1959

Requires drivers and front seat passengers in passenger cars manufactured after January 1, 1968, to wear properly adjusted and fastened safety belts meeting federal National Highway Transportation and Safety Act requirements.

Exempts U.S. Postal Service employees performing mail delivery duties, persons with physician-documented medical reasons, persons engaged in agricultural work-related activities, and persons under 18 years old in trucks.

Prohibits law enforcement from stopping, inspecting, or detaining vehicles solely to determine safety belt compliance.

Establishes violation as an infraction with a fine not to exceed $10, no court costs, and no points assessed against driver records.

Limits admission of failure to wear a safety belt in civil damages cases to mitigation only, requiring expert evidence that non-compliance contributed to injuries, with reductions capped at one percent of awarded damages.