In an attempt to continue receiving federal transportation funding, Missouri lawmakers are scrambling to comply with federal regulations regarding the use of handheld cellular devices.
Federal regulations prohibit commercial drivers from using any type of handheld cellular devices, but Missouri has yet catch up with federal guidelines.
If Missouri lawmakers can’t agree on the bill, the state is at risk of losing $30 million in federal transportation funds this year and $60 million each year thereafter.
Representative Dave Schatz, chairman of the House Transportation Committee and bill sponsor, said the bill needs to be passed and enacted quickly.
“We cannot afford to lose any funding that comes toward transportation,” he said.
Last week, lawmakers gave their initial approval of the bill. The bill is expected to receive final approval this week.