Allows motorcycles to operate between stopped and slow-moving lanes of traffic
Summary
HB705 would create a new section of Missouri law governing motorcycle operation and define two related concepts: “lane filtering” and “lane splitting.” Under the bill, lane filtering means a motorcycle moving between rows of stopped or slow-moving vehicles traveling in the same direction, while lane splitting refers to moving between rows of fast-moving vehicles. The bill allows a motorcycle operator to overtake and pass vehicles in the same lane or between lanes of vehicles when traveling no more than 10 miles per hour over the speed of traffic flow and no more than 25 miles per hour overall.
The bill expressly states that nothing in the section authorizes lane splitting, so the permission is limited to lane filtering under the stated speed conditions. It also makes it an infraction for a motor vehicle driver to intentionally impede or try to prevent a motorcycle from operating as allowed by the bill. In addition, the Missouri State Highway Patrol is authorized to develop educational guidelines about lane filtering to promote safety for motorcycle operators and surrounding drivers and passengers.
Impact
HB705 would amend Chapter 304, RSMo, by adding section 304.039 and creating a new traffic rule specific to motorcycles. It would change the legal status of lane filtering from unaddressed or potentially prohibited conduct into expressly permitted conduct under limited conditions, while continuing to prohibit lane splitting. The bill would also create a new infraction for drivers who intentionally block or interfere with lawful motorcycle filtering and would give the Missouri State Highway Patrol a role in issuing safety guidance. The affected parties are motorcycle riders, other motorists, and law enforcement agencies responsible for traffic enforcement and public education.
Sentiment
Based on the bill text and available context, the bill appears generally supportive of motorcycle riders and traffic-safety modernization. The caption and language indicate an intent to allow a narrowly defined form of lane filtering rather than broader lane splitting, suggesting a measured approach aimed at balancing rider mobility with roadway safety. There is no recorded committee testimony or vote history in the provided materials, so no formal opposition or support is documented here beyond the bill’s policy design.
Contention
The main point of contention is likely the safety and enforcement implications of allowing motorcycles to move between lanes, even at limited speeds. Supporters would likely emphasize reduced congestion and improved rider mobility, while opponents may worry about collisions, driver confusion, and the difficulty of determining when traffic is “stopped or slow-moving” versus “fast-moving.” Another possible issue is the bill’s prohibition on intentional obstruction, which could raise questions about what conduct counts as impeding a motorcycle and how law enforcement would prove intent. The bill tries to address these concerns by excluding lane splitting and capping the permitted speed differential.