MO HB3491

Commercial motor vehicle operators must demonstrate English language proficiency sufficient to converse with the public, understand traffic signs, respond to official inquiries, and make entries on reports; violations are a class D misdemeanor (first offense) or class B misdemeanor (subsequent), plus a $1,000 fine for drivers and $3,000 fine for carriers

Nondomiciled commercial driver's license holders must possess a valid work visa or proof of citizenship (birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or passport) while operating; carriers face $3,000 fines per violation for noncompliant drivers

Unlawful commercial motor vehicle operation—operating without a valid CDL compliant with 49 CFR Part 383 or without federal work authorization—is a class A misdemeanor for first/second offenses and a class D felony for third or subsequent offenses

Commercial motor carriers must ensure all drivers hold valid CDLs and federal work authorization; violations carry civil penalties of $15,000 minimum per violation, increasing to $25,000 if serious injury results and $50,000 if death results

Second violations within five years may result in up to one-year suspension of carrier operating authority; third violations may result in revocation, with successor entities remaining jointly liable for unpaid fines