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MO HB3415

Bill

Status

Introduced

2/24/2026

Primary Sponsor

Steve Butz

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Amends the "Siddens Bening Hands Free Law" to allow counties, municipalities, and other political subdivisions to enact local laws regulating electronic communication device use while driving, provided such local regulations are consistent with state law

  • Prohibits drivers from physically holding electronic devices, texting, making calls without hands-free features, watching videos, or recording/broadcasting while operating a vehicle on Missouri highways

  • Establishes escalating fines: up to $150 for first offense, $250 for second offense within 24 months, and $500 for third or subsequent offenses or violations in work/school zones

  • Creates criminal penalties when violations cause harm: class D misdemeanor for property damage over $5,000, class B misdemeanor for serious physical injury, and class D felony for causing death

  • Exempts law enforcement, emergency situations, hands-free device use, navigation, audio playback, and vehicles that are lawfully stopped or parked; prior to January 1, 2025, only warnings could be issued for noncommercial vehicle violations

Legislative Description

Allows a political subdivision to enact ordinances prohibiting operation of an electronic communication device while operating a motor vehicle

Last Action

Read Second Time (H)

2/25/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available