For years, Missouri has been one of only two states in the nation without a cell phone messaging ban for all drivers. While there is legislation banning texting and driving for those 21 and younger, nothing exists for those 22 and up. This is especially concerning given that data shows that 70% of drivers using cell phones in Missouri are 22 or older.
In response to this, Missourians for Responsible Transportation has been working with a coalition of stakeholders from across the Show-Me State to push for stronger distracted driving legislation. As the 2022 legislative session begins, we will be following 10 different pieces of legislation related to distracted driving which have been introduced. More information can be found below:
| Bill Number | Bill Sponsor | Bill Explanation |
| HB 1479 | Dinkins | Prohibits the use of a hand-held wireless communication device within school zones and construction or work zones |
| HB 1487 | Porter | Creates the offense of distracted driving |
| HB 1571 | Wallingford | Enacts provisions relating to the operation of motor vehicles while using electronic devices |
| HB 1701 | Roberts | Prohibits the use of hand-held electronic wireless communications devices while driving noncommercial and commercial motor vehicles; but allows the use of such devices when used hands-free by operators of noncommercial motor vehicles |
| HB 1884 | Pollitt | Prohibits the use of a hand-held wireless communication device in a school zone |
| HB 2229 | Tate | Prohibits the use of hand-held electronic wireless communication devices while driving non-commercial and commercial motor vehicles; but allows the use of such devices when used hands-free by operators or non-commercial motor vehicles who are fully licensed and eighteen years of age or older |
| HB 2243 | Evans | Prohibits the use of a hand-held wireless communications device for texting by drivers of any age |
| HB 2279 | Bland-Manlove | Prohibits text messaging while driving for all drivers |
| SB 713 | Razer | Modifies provisions relating to the operation of motor vehicles while using electronic devices |
| SB 972 | Schupp | Modifies provisions relating to the operation of motor vehicles while using electronic devices |
Proposed bills must receive a majority vote in both the State House and the State Senate. If that happens, it then goes to the Governor’s desk, where it is either signed into law or vetoed.
To learn more about the Missouri legislature, including finding your own state representative or state senator, click here.
About Missourians for Responsible Transportation
MRT is a collaboration of BikeWalkKC in Greater Kansas City, Local Motion (formerly PedNet) in Columbia, Ozark Greenways in Springfield, and Trailnet in Greater St. Louis. We work together to advocate for state-wide active transportation goals in Jefferson City and to support local communities around the state with technical assistance for community planning and public policy.