HB 2240 requires that autonomous vehicles operating on public roads must have a licensed human operator physically present who can actively control the vehicle at all times. It defines "autonomous technology" as systems enabling full driverless operation (excluding basic safety features like adaptive cruise control), and mandates that autonomous vehicles meet all state and federal safety standards before registration. The bill prohibits autonomous vehicles from transporting goods or passengers commercially (e.g., for delivery or ridesharing) unless a human operator is present and licensed to intervene. This directly affects autonomous vehicle owners, manufacturers, and operators by imposing operational safety requirements and restricting commercial use until human oversight is guaranteed.
HB 1753 requires Missouri driver's license applicants needing a road skills test to complete a free, 5-hour online road safety course before taking the test. The course covers distracted driving hazards, crash prevention, safe driving habits, and traffic stop procedures. Applicants must finish this course by January 1, 2028, when the Department of Public Safety must develop or accredit it, with fees up to $20 collected after completion to fund a dedicated Driver Safety Education Fund. This applies to standard license applicants but excludes commercial license seekers and waives the requirement for those with high school driver's education certification.
HB 2191 requires anyone convicted of an alcohol-impaired driving offense (including first-time offenses) to install and maintain a certified ignition interlock device in their vehicle for at least six months after their driver's license is reinstated. This applies to all vehicles operated by the person, including during any limited driving privilege granted by a court. The law adds this requirement to existing penalties under traffic laws, making ignition interlock use mandatory for all such convictions, not just repeat offenses. It does not change the definition of the offense but expands the scope of who must use the device. The bill is currently in early legislative stages (prefiled and read first time).
HB 2351 adds "failure to secure a load" (violating section 307.010) to the list of traffic violations that earn 2 points on a driver's license. This specifically affects commercial drivers who transport goods, as failing to secure cargo properly will now count toward license point totals. The bill amends existing point assessment rules to include this violation, aligning it with other non-speeding traffic offenses like improper equipment. Points are assessed after conviction and can lead to license suspension if accumulated, but drivers may avoid points by completing approved driver improvement courses (within limits).
HB 2352 requires individuals convicted of intoxication-related traffic offenses (like DUI/DWI) to install and maintain a functioning ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicles. This applies to all drivers reinstating a license after a first offense (for at least six months) and those with limited driving privileges after a second or subsequent offense. The device prevents a vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected on the driver's breath. These requirements apply in addition to existing state laws about IIDs and carry penalties for non-compliance.
HB 1939 modifies Missouri law to allow municipalities to permit golf cart operation on streets with posted speed limits of 25 mph or lower, directly affecting local governments and golf cart users. The bill requires golf carts to meet specific safety standards, including headlights, reflectors, brakes, and a valid driver's license for operators, while prohibiting operation on sidewalks, pedestrian trails, or highways with speed limits over 45 mph. It explicitly states golf carts are exempt from vehicle registration and must not exceed 25 mph. This bill replaces existing provisions to clarify municipal authority and safety requirements for golf cart use within city limits.
