Bill > HB671

This bill amends Missouri state law to require drivers to stop at railroad crossings not only when trains are approaching, but also when any on-track equipment is present. Specifically, the bill modifies two existing sections of Missouri law (300.295 and 304.035) to expand the circumstances under which drivers must stop at railroad crossings. Drivers are now required to stop between 15 and 50 feet from the nearest rail when: (1) an electric or mechanical signal device warns of approaching on-track equipment, (2) a crossing gate is lowered or a human flagman signals the approach of on-track equipment, or (3) on-track equipment is plainly visible and in hazardous proximity to the crossing. The bill also maintains existing provisions that prohibit drivers from driving through or around a crossing gate when it is closed or being opened/closed, and adds requirements about maintaining sufficient vehicle undercarriage clearance and space to completely clear the crossing. Violations of these updated requirements would be classified as a class C misdemeanor, maintaining the previous law's penalty structure. The primary goal of this legislation appears to be enhancing safety at railroad crossings by broadening the definition of what constitutes a hazardous situation beyond just train approaches.

Government Affairs, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB671&year=2025&code=R