Missouri implements new traffic laws regarding speed limits and school bus safety

Missouri is implementing two new sets of traffic-related laws effective August 28.

Regarding highway speeds, the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has announced a delay in implementing higher speed limits. While new state legislation allows for maximum speeds of up to 75 mph on certain rural interstates and freeways, MoDOT is still evaluating which highway segments can safely support the increase. Drivers must continue to obey current posted limits until MoDOT officially updates signage. The law, which was signed by Governor Mike Kehoe, grants officials the authority to establish higher limits rather than mandating an automatic statewide increase.

Separately, a new school bus safety law, SB 1421, introduces significantly harsher penalties for drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses. Penalties for first-time offenders include fines between $500 and $1,000 and a 90-day license suspension. If a child is seriously injured, the offense can be classified as a Class D felony, carrying up to seven years in prison and a $10,000 fine. The law also authorizes school districts to use safety cameras to detect stop-arm violations.