Missouri Electric Laws and Incentives
State Laws and Regulations
Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV) Acquisition and Alternative Fuel Use Requirements
At least 50% of all new vehicles purchased by a state agency that operates a vehicle fleet consisting of 15 vehicles or more must be capable of operating using an alternative fuel. Excess acquisitions of AFVs may be credited towards future biennial goals. If a state agency fails to meet a biennial acquisition goal, purchases of any non-AFVs are not permitted until the goals are met or an exemption or goal reduction has been granted. In addition, 30% of the fuel purchased annually for use in operating state fleet vehicles must be alternative fuels. (Reference Missouri Revised Statutes 414.400 and 414.410)
Alternative Fuels Promotion
The Missouri Alternative Fuels Commission promotes the continued production and use of alternative and renewable transportation fuels in Missouri. The commission submits a report annually to the Governor and general assembly and provides recommendations on changes to state law to facilitate the sale and distribution of alternative fuels and alternative fuel vehicles; promote the development, sale, distribution, and consumption of alternative fuels; promote the development and use of alternative fuel vehicles and technology that will enhance the use of alternative and renewable transportation fuels; educate consumers about alternative fuels; and develop a long-range plan for the state to reduce consumption of petroleum fuels. (Reference Missouri Revised Statutes 414.420)
Low-Speed Vehicle Access to Roadways
A low-speed vehicle is defined as a four-wheeled vehicle with a maximum speed of 25 miles per hour (mph) and manufactured in compliance with National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standards. A low-speed vehicle may not be operated on a street or highway with a posted speed limit greater than 35 mph and is exempt from inspection and emission testing as long as it complies with the minimum safety equipment requirements as adopted in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Section 571.500. (Reference Missouri Revised Statutes 304.029)
Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV) Emission Inspection Exemption
Vehicles that are powered exclusively by electric or hydrogen power, or by fuels other than gasoline, which are exempt from motor vehicle emissions inspection under federal regulation, are exempt from state emissions inspection requirements. (Reference Missouri Revised Statutes 643.315)
Alternative Fuel Tax
The $0.17 per gallon motor fuel tax does not apply to passenger vehicles, certain buses, or commercial vehicles that are powered by an alternative fuel. The owners or operators of such vehicles are required to pay an annual alternative fuel decal fee as follows (certain restrictions apply):
| Gross Vehicle Weight | Type of Vehicle | Decal Fee |
|---|---|---|
| 18,000 pounds (lbs.) or less | Passenger, School Bus, or Commercial | $75 |
| 18,000 lbs.-36,000 lbs. | Farm or Farming Transportation with an 'F' License Plate | $100 |
| 18,000 lbs.-36,000 lbs. | Passenger-Carrying and Other Motor Vehicles | $150 |
| 36,000 lbs. or more | Farm or Farming Transportation with an 'F' License Plate | $250 |
| 36,000 lbs. or more | All Other Motor Vehicles | $1,000 |
It is unlawful for any person to operate a motor vehicle on state highways without a valid decal if such vehicle is required to have an alternative fuel decal. No person may fuel an alternative fuel vehicle with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or natural gas unless the vehicle has a valid decal. Motor vehicles licensed as historic vehicles that are powered by alternative fuels are exempt from the motor fuels tax as well as the alternative fuel decal requirement.
(Reference Missouri Revised Statutes 142.803 and 142.869)
