Bill > SB1252

This bill modifies existing Missouri state law to explicitly include canine search and rescue teams alongside fire departments, ambulance associations, and rescue squads when defining emergency vehicle operations. Specifically, the bill allows vehicles operated by canine search and rescue teams to use warning sirens and blue lights while responding to emergency calls requiring search and rescue operations, similar to how emergency vehicles for fire and ambulance services are currently permitted. The legislation expands the legal definition of emergency vehicles to recognize the critical role of canine search and rescue teams in emergency response situations. The bill maintains existing regulations about the use of emergency lights, requiring that they be used only in genuine emergencies and that operators must still comply with all other traffic laws. Permits for using sirens and blue lights will continue to be issued and potentially revoked by the chief of the relevant emergency response organization, and violations of these provisions would be classified as a class A misdemeanor. This change acknowledges the important public safety work performed by canine search and rescue teams and provides them with similar operational privileges as other emergency response organizations.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.senate.mo.gov/26info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=301