Missouri Taxation of Propane As Motor Fuel Amended

(Jefferson City, Mo.) June 28, 2017 — The Missouri legislature has established a five-cent per gallon motor fuel tax on propane autogas used to propel motor vehicles, with an increase to seventeen cents per gallon by January 1, 2025. The bill was signed into law June 28, 2017, by Missouri Governor Eric Greitens. Owners and operators of propane-fueled vehicles may continue to apply for and use alternative fuel decals in lieu of paying the motor fuel tax. If the owner or operator of a propane-fueled vehicle bearing an alternative fuel decal refuels at an unattended propane refueling station at which the motor fuel tax is collected at the point of sale, such owner or operator shall not be eligible for a refund of such tax paid.

This act changes what entity may designate the roads on which a 14-foot length limit applies; and who shall issue permits for the movement of sludge disposal units, pump trucks, well-driller’s equipment, and utility wires, poles, and equipment; from the chief engineer of the Missouri Dept. of Transportation (MODOT) to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission.

This act also provides that stinger-steered combination automobile transporters up to 80 feet long may be operated on, or within 10 miles of, interstates and other highways designated by the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission, and that automobile transporters may carry cargo on a backhaul, so long as it complies with weight limitations for regular tractor-trailers. No tow-away trailer transporter combination vehicles operating on the interstate or designated primary highway system shall exceed a length of 82 feet.

This act also prescribes separate weight limits for emergency vehicles, and for vehicles powered by natural gas.

This act also modifies several cross-references to the definition of “subdivision (42) of section 301.010” to refer to section 301.010 as a whole.