Transportation (Rail)

HB 2246 requires drivers to stop at railroad crossings when approaching *any* on-track equipment (like maintenance vehicles or work trains), not just trains. Drivers must stop 15-50 feet from the nearest rail and wait until it’s safe to proceed if signals warn of an approaching train or on-track equipment, a gate is lowered, or equipment is visible and close. This expands existing rules that previously only required stops for trains. The bill directly affects all drivers approaching railroad crossings and aims to improve safety by broadening the circumstances requiring a stop.

The provided bill text does not match the title "Changes the law regarding firearm concealed carry permits." Instead, the bill describes regulations for the bi-state development agency's light rail system, including fare payment requirements and restrictions on items in transit. It defines terms like "conveyance" (e.g., light rail vehicles) and "facilities" (e.g., stations), and prohibits unauthorized use of fare media or entry into paid areas. The content focuses on public transportation rules, not firearm permits, indicating a mismatch between the title and actual provisions.

SB 1104 requires drivers to stop at railroad grade crossings for "any on-track equipment" (such as maintenance vehicles or other rail equipment) in addition to trains. This applies to all drivers approaching crossings when signals, gates, visible equipment, or other required stops are present. Drivers must stop 15-50 feet from the nearest rail and remain stopped until it is safe to proceed. The bill updates Missouri’s traffic laws (sections 300.295 and 304.035) to expand existing stopping requirements and includes penalties for violations, including a class C misdemeanor. It directly affects all drivers using railroad crossings statewide.

HB 2385 modifies Missouri railroad safety rules to address highway crossings, train length, crew requirements, and crew privacy. It prohibits trains from blocking highway crossings for over 15 minutes (except during emergencies or continuous movement), limits freight trains to 8,500 feet in length, and requires two qualified crew members for most freight operations (excluding helper/hostler services or slow loading/unloading). Violations incur fines up to $10,000 per offense, and the bill mandates redaction of crew members' personal information in public incident records, with limited access for authorized entities like railroads or law enforcement. The law aligns with federal safety regulations and is enforced by the Missouri Department of Transportation.